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WAR    LETTERS 

OF 

WILLIAM    THOMPSON    LUSK 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 

in  2010  with  funding  from 

Open  Knowledge  Commons 


http://www.archive.org/details/warlettersofwillOOIusk 


Captain     William  Thompson    Lus« 

Assistant   Adjutant-General 
U.S.  Volunteer  5 


WAR  LETTERS 

°f 
^)^illiamThompson  Lusk. 

Captain,  Assistant  Adjutant-Qeneral, 

United  States  Volunteers 

i8bi  — 1863 

Afterward   M.D.,LL.D. 


*4|jk* 


New  York 

PRIVATELY  PRINTED 

MCMXI 


a<n 


COPYRIGHT,    1911,    BY 
WILLIAM     CHITTENDEN     LUSK 

ALL     RIGHTS      RESERVED 


Q 


"  I  believe  that  ....  the  next  generation  will  be  better  when  they 
hear  the  story  of  the  present.  And  another  generation  still,  when  the 
dimness  of  time  shall  have  enhanced  the  romance,  will  dearly  love  to 
hear  the  tale  of  the  Great  Rebellion   .   .   .   ."      p.   243. 

" loving  our  country  better,  for  having  proved  that  it  was 

so  dear  that  we  were  willing  even  to  give  up  our  life  for  its  preserva- 
tion."    p.  92. 

"  But  living,  or  fallen  among  the  chosen,  I  trust  if  the  tidings  of  vic- 
tory be  heard,  all  who  love  me  will  wear  their  gayest  colors  and  cheeriest 
smiles,  in  the  joy  at  the  success  of  the  cause  in  which  the  loved  one 
rejoiced  to  risk  his  all.  With  such  parting  words  I  can  go  without  a 
tremor  into  battle,  and  fear  nothing  where  God  ruleth  Supreme."  p.  272 

"It  is  enough  to  do  one's  duty  and  let  Providence  provide."   p.  243. 

"...  we  know  at  least  that  Providence  doeth  all  things  well,  if  not 
exactly  as  man  would  have  it."     p.  262. 

"Let  us  hone  for  the  best  in  all  things  then,  and  believe  that  in  all 
things,  if  we  seek,  we  may  always  find  a  best."     p.  244. 


PREFATORY  NOTES 

William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D.,  LL.D.,  was  the  son 
of  Sylvester  Graham  and  Elizabeth  Freeman  (nee  Adams) 
Lusk;  grandson  of  Sylvester  and  Sarah  {nee  King)  Lusk, 
of  Enfield,  Conn.,  and  of  Richard  and  Alary  Rebecca 
(nee  Turville)  Adams  of  Norwich,  Conn.  Richard  Adams 
and  his  wife  were  both  natives  of  Essequibo,  British 
Guiana. 

His  great-great-grandfather,  John  Lusk,  was  born  in 
Scotland,  whence  he  emigrated  to  the  North  of  Ire- 
land, and  thence  to  this  country,  settling  at  Wethers- 
field,  Conn.  He  died  at  Newington  in  the  township  of 
Wethersfield  in  1788  at  the  age  of  eighty-three  years. 
His  origin  is  obscure. 

William  T.  Lusk's  great-great-grandfather  on  his 
mother's  side  was  Richard  Adams,  who  was  born  in 
England  between  1690  and  1720  and  settled  in  South 
America. 

His  father  (b.  1805,  d.  1840)  was  a  New  York  merchant 
of  the  house  of  Lusk,  Lathrop  &  Co.  His  mother  was 
born  in  1814  and  died  in  1875. 

The  familiar  references  to  people  in  these  letters  have 
the  following  interpretations:  Cousin  Lou  is  Mrs.  Henry 
G.  Thompson;  Uncle  John  is  John  Adams,  the  brother 
of  William  T.  Lusk's  mother;  Uncle  Phelps  is  Isaac  X. 
Phelps,  and  Aunt  Maria  (nee  Lusk)  is  his  wife;  Walter  is 
William  Walter  Phelps;  Hall  is  the  Rev.  William  K. 
Hall,  later  of  Newburg,  New  York;  Horace  is  Horace 
Barnard,  brother  of  Mrs.  Henry  G.  Thompson. 


viii  PREFATORY   NOTES 

The  historical  notes  of  this  volume  were  collected  by 
Anna  H.  Lusk. 

Mr.  Edward  L.  Burlingame  gave  valued  advice  in 
the  editing. 

Mr.  O.  G.  Mason,  for  forty-two  years  the  photog- 
rapher at  Bellevue  Hospital,  skilfully  revived  much  of 
the  former  intensity  of  those  photographs  used  for  repro- 
duction, that  were  faded  and  worn  by  time. 

The  books  from  which  the  references  and  maps  were 
taken  are  the  following: 

"The  Rebellion  Record,"  edited  by  Frank  Moore,  published  by 
G.  P.  Putnam,  New  York. 

"The  79th  Highlanders  New  York  Volunteers  in  the  War  of  the 
Rebellion,"  by  William  Todd.  Press  of  Brandow,  Barton  &  Co.,  Al- 
bany, New  York,  1886. 

"The  Life  of  Isaac  Ingalls  Stevens,"  by  his  son  Hazard  Stevens, 
published  by  Houghton,  Mifflin  &  Co.,  Boston  and  New  York.  The 
Riverside  Press,  Cambridge,  1900. 

"Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,"  by  Francis  Winthrop  Palfrey,  pub- 
lished by  Chas.  Scribner's  Sons,  New  York,  1882. 

"Letters  of  a  Family  during  the  War  for  the  Union,"  printed  for 
private  distribution.  Copyright  1899,  by  Georgeanna  Woolsey  Bacon 
and  Eliza  Woolsey  Howland. 

"The  Memorial  History  of  the  City  of  New  York,"  edited  by  Jas. 
Grant  Wilson,  published  by  The  New  York  History  Co.,  1893. 

"The  War  of  the  Rebellion,"  prepared  under  the  direction  of  the 
Secretary  of  War  by  Bvt.  Lieut. -Col.  Robert  N.  Scott,  Third  U.  S. 
Artillery.     Published  at  Government  Printing  Office,  Washington,  1882. 

"The  Medical  and  Surgical  History  of  the  War  of  the  Rebellion," 
prepared,  in  accordance  with  acts  of  Congress,  under  the  direction  of 
Surgeon-General  Joseph  E.  Barnes,  U.  S.  Army.  Part  First.  Medical. 
Published  at  Government  Printing  Office,  Washington,  Second  Issue, 
1879. 


CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Prefatory  Notes vii 

Introduction i 

Memorials  of  William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D.,  LL.D.  .         5 

William  T.  Lusk.    An  Editorial  from  The  Brooklyn  Eagle  by 

Hairy  S.  Kingslcy 7 

Memorial    Notice  of  Tin-  Military  Order  of  The  Loyal  L< 

of  the   United   States 0 

Address  in  Memory  of  William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D.,  LL.D. 
By  Dr.  A.  Alexander  Smith 13 

Memoir  of  William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D.  By  Austin  Flint, 
M.D 21 

In   Memoriam.     William  Thompson   Lusk,   M.D.,   LL.D.      By 

Henry  C.  Coe,  M.D 25 

Valedictory  Address  of  William  Thompson  Lusk  on  His 
Graduation    from    the     Bellevue    Hospital    Medical 

College,  1864 35 

War  Letters  of  William  Thompson  Lusk,  Captain,  Assistant 
Adjutant-General,  United  States  Volunteers,  1861- 
1863   ............      47 

William  T.  Lusk  joins  the  79th  Highland  Regiment,  New  York 
Volunteers,  June,  1861 47 

Col.  W.  T.  Sherman  made  brigade  commander,  and  Brigadier- 
General  Daniel  Tyler,  commander  of  the  division,  about  Julv 
12,  1861 51 

Skirmish  of  Blackburn's  Ford,  Julv  18,  1861 51,  54 

First  Battle  of  Bull  Run,  July  21,  i85i.     Death  of  Col.  Cameron  55,  60 

Transfer  of  the  79th  Highlanders  from   Colonel  W.  T.  Sher- 
man's brigade  to  that  of  General  Mansfield       .       .  68 

Appointment  of  Gov.  Isaac  I.  Stevens  Colonel  of  the  79th  High- 
landers      70 

The  Mutiny  in  the  79th  Regiment,  Aug.  14,  1S61         ...        72,  76 

Reconnoissance  at  Lewinsville,  Sept.  11,  1861.  Restoration  of 
Colors  to  the  Highlanders.  Colonel  Stevens  appointed  Brig- 
adier-General       85 

The  Port  Roval  Expedition  under  the  command  of  General 
Thos.  W.  Sherman,  started  from  Hampton  Roads,  Oct.  29, 
1861 89,  94 

ix 


CONTENTS 

PAGE 

Naval  Engagement  at  Port  Roval  under  the  command  of  Com- 
modore Saml.  F.  Dupont,  Nov.  7,  1861         95 

The  Occupation  of  Beaufort,  Dec.  9,  1861 107 

Action  at  Port  Roval  Ferrv,  Jan.  1,  1862 115 

Appointment  of  Col.  Addison  Farnsworth  Colonel  of  the  High- 
landers      115 

General  Thos.  W.  Sherman  superseded  by  Major-General 
David  Hunter  and    Brigadier-General   H.  W.  Benham,  April 

8,  1862 132,  143 

The  Fall  of  Fort  Pulaski,  April  II,  1862    ....       136,  141,  143 
Battle  of  Secessionville  on  James  Island,  June  16,  1862       153,  156,  157 
The  79th  Highlanders  sail  for  Fortress  Monroe,  and  join  Burn- 
side's  Expedition  at  Newport  News 163,  166 

The  Reinforcement  of  Pope  by  Burnside's  Troops  .  .  .  .  174 
Second  Battle  of  Bull  Run,  Aug.  28,  29,  and  30,  1862  .  .  .  182 
Battle  of  Chantilly,  Sept.  1,  1862.     Death  of  Genl.  Stevens    .   180,  185 

The  Reinstatement  of  McClellan 202 

Battle  of  South  Mountain,  Sept.  4,  1862 197,  203 

Battle  of  Sharpsburg  or  Antietam,  Sept.  17,  1862       .      .      .   199,  205 

McClellan  succeeded  by  Burnside 228 

Letters  relating  to  efforts  made  to  secure  for  Capt.  Lusk  the 
Commission  of  Major  in  the  79th  Regiment,  N.  Y.  Volun- 
teers   218,  219,  233,  235,  236,  238,  251 

Battle  of  Fredericksburg,  Dec.  13,  1862 244,  249 

The  "Mud  Campaign."     Burnside  succeeded  by  Hooker    .      .     268 
Letters  relating  to  the  appointment  of  Capt.  Lusk  as  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  of  the  Blair  Light  Infantry 276,  280 

The  Return  of  Lieutenant-Colonel  Lusk  to  the  scene  of  con- 
flict (Harper's  Ferry),  serving  as  Assistant  Adjutant-General 

on  General  Daniel  Tyler's  staff 281,  284 

Letter  written  after  the  Battle  of  Gettysburg,  July  1,  2,  and  3, 

1863,  and  the  Surrender  of  Vicksburg,  July  4,  1863    .      .      .     284 
The  Draft   Riots  in    New   York    City,  July    11,    12,    and    13, 
1863 287,  288,  290 


ILLUSTRATIONS 

„  PAGI 

Captain    William     I  hompson     Lusk,    Assistant    Adjutant- 
General,  U.  S.  Volunteers Frontispiece 

William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D.,  LL.D 7 

William  Thompson  Lusk n- 

Elizabeth  Frf.eman  (Adams)  Lusk,  Mother  of  W.  T.  Lusk  47 

Brigadier-General  Daniel  Tyler -, 

William  Thompson  Lusk  at  the  Age  of  Seven  Years    .      .  80 

Brigadier-General  Isaac  I.  Stevens 122 

General  Isaac  I.  Stevens  and  His  Staff 13- 

Captain  Lusk  in  His  "  Old  Clothes."    Taken  by  the  '"  Cheap 

John'  Style  of  Man" 166 

House  at  Norwich,  Conn.,  in  which  William  T.  Lusk  was 

born.    The  Home  of  His  Childhood i-? 

Mary  Hartwell   Chittenden  whom  W.   T.   Lusk   Married 

May  4,   1S64 262 

MAPS 

Map  of  Military  Operations  in  N.E.  Virginia,  Maryland, 

AND  PENNYSYLVANIA ,n 

+v 

Port  Royal  and  Sea  Islands  of  South  Carolina  .      .      .  95 


INTRODUCTION 

The  letters  of  this  volume  portray  in  the  life  of  William 
Thompson  Lusk,  his  part  as  the  patriot. 

During  his  later  years  Dr.  Lusk  referred  little  to  his 
army  experiences,  and  the  discovery  of  these  letters  sev- 
eral years  after  his  death,  revealed  a  part  of  his  career 
hitherto  little  realized  by  those  who  had  known  him  more 
as  the  skilful  physician,  the  wise  counsellor,  the  generous 
and  sympathetic  friend,  the  boon  companion.  The  same 
enthusiasm,  the  same  high  regard  for  duty,  the  same  desire 
to  be  helpful  to  others,  the  same  inconsideration  for  self, 
which  dominated  his  professional  life,  are  depicted  in  his 
career  as  the  young  soldier,  ever  at  the  front,  fighting  for 
his  country.  His  heroism  on  the  battle-field  forms  a 
characteristic  picture  equally  true  to  every  phase  of  his 
subsequent  career. 

These  letters  have  been  put  into  print,  that  a  story  of 
heroism  might  be  handed  down,  that  the  history  of  the 
War  of  the  Rebellion  might  be  embellished  by  descrip- 
tions written  at  the  scene  of  the  great  drama  by  one  of 
the  performers,  and  that  a  fuller  insight  might  be  given 
to  his  friends  into  the  rare  personality  of  this  man  who, 
no  matter  how  well  they  might  have  thought  they  knew 
him,  must  have  been  known  to  them  only  in  part. 

The  letters  are  the  writings  of  a  young  man  between 
the  ages  of  twenty-three  and  twenty-five  years.  Threaded 
through  them  is  a  sturdy  philosophy  which  puts  forward 
the  bright  side  of  life  to  face  all  obstacles.     Certain  refer- 


2  INTRODUCTION 

ences  to  public  characters  which  do  not  coincide  with 
later-date  views  of  the  individuals,  will  be  recognized  as 
expressions  which  were  true  to  local  feeling  during  times 
when  the  nation  was  in  peril  and  opinions  ran  hot  and 
strong.  To  the  soldierly  courage  of  his  regiment,  in  a 
letter  written  just  before  the  battle  of  Fredericksburg, 
Captain  Lusk  pays  his  tribute  in  the  following  words: 
"Think  of  the  pride  I  shall  feel  as  my  own  Regiment 
receives  its  welcome  from  the  joyous  citizens  of  New  York 
—  a  welcome  deserved  by  its  conduct  on  many  fields." 


One  of  Dr.  Lusk's  happy  precepts  was,  never  to  insist 
on  things  being  done  which,  as  he  said,  "made  no  differ- 
ence." His  advice  was  generally  given  as  a  suggestion 
which  he  would  not  reiterate,  but  his  suggestions  carried 
great  weight  and  were  generally  accepted  unequivocally 
as  law.  His  patients  idolized  him.  Numbers  of  them 
after  his  death  uttered  words  like  these:  "I  know  he 
was  more  to  me  than  he  could  have  been  to  any  one  else." 
Thus  each  family  whom  he  attended  had  grown  to  depend 
on  his  wisdom  and  cheer,  and  when  he  was  taken  away 
his  place  could  not  be  filled.  When,  with  the  develop- 
ment of  modern  surgery,  he  was  acquiring  a  large  opera- 
tive gynecological  practice,  and  the  question  arose  what 
part  of  his  professional  work  must  be  curtailed  to  give 
him  time  for  the  surgery,  one  thing  he  was  very  sure  of 
was,  that  he  would  never  give  up  his  family  practice, 
since  that  would  deprive  him  of  the  opportunity  of  seeing 
familiarly  the  many  friends  who  were  his  patients,  which 
was  one  of  his  particular  pleasures  in  life.     One  of  his 


INTRODUCTION  3 

patients  once  said,  "lie  seemed  constantly  at  the  bedside 
of  my  sick  child,  yet  later  I  met  a  friend  who  told  me  that 
at  this  very  period  of  time  Dr.  Lusk  was  constantly  at 
the  bedside  of  his  child  as  well."  The  physical  effort 
which  he  put  into  the  discharge  of  his  professional  duties 
was  always  very  great.  He  has  been  known,  after  two 
consecutive  nights  of  work,  to  attend  to  his  affairs  on  the 
third  day  without  an  intervening  rest.  One  night,  a  year 
or  two  before  he  died,  worn  with  great  fatigue,  he  was 
called  early  from  his  bed  to  try  and  save  a  woman's  life. 
He  responded  promptly,  and  as  he  went  down  stairs  he 
was  heard  to  say  wearily  to  himself,  "Oh!  I  am  so  tired." 
In  the  morning  he  remarked  with  a  quiet  smile,  "It  was 
all  worth  while.     The  patient  lives." 

He  was  an  inveterate  reader.  Whenever  he  had  an 
idle  moment  he  would  pick  up  something  to  read.  He 
accomplished  much  literary  work  while  driving  around 
in  his  coupe.  Later  he  got  an  open  carriage  and  would 
drive  his  horses  himself  so  that  he  should  not  read  so 
much. 

One  particular  charm  was  his  never  failing  interest  in 
the  doings  of  young  people,  in  whose  society  he  always 
took  a  keen  enjoyment.  He  never  outgrew  his  ability 
to  comprehend  the  standpoint  of  youth.  Professionally, 
he  never  seemed  happier  than  when  he  was  helping  along 
some  of  the  younger  men. 

He  was  a  good  story-teller,  and  quick  to  see  and  enjoy 
fun  wherever  it  could  be  found,  and  so  it  was  that  he  was 
his  children's  boon  companion. 

He  was  a  keen  lover  of  nature,  and  especially  enjoyed 
the  color  in  nature.  In  the  country  he  always  liked  a 
view  with  water  near  by  for  its  color  contrast.  During 
one  summer  spent  at  Dives  on  the  Normandy  coast,  he 


4  INTRODUCTION 

could  frequently  be  found  at  the  sunset  hour  over  at 
Cabourg  leaning  on  the  sea-wall,  looking  out  over  the 
ocean  and  watching  the  play  of  colors  in  the  western 
sky.  Just  before  his  death  he  was  planning  a  house  in 
the  country,  beside  a  lake  among  beautiful  hills,  and 
around  the  house  there  was  to  be  a  garden  of  holly- 
hoc"ks.  He  once  remarked:  "Nature  never  looked  so 
beautiful  as  the  morning;  before  a  battle." 

W.  C.  L. 
47  East  ^th  Street. 


MEMORIALS    OF 

WILLIAM    THOMPSON    LUSK 
M.D.,  LL.D. 

Captain,  Assistant  Adjutant-General,   United  States  Volunteers, 
1861-1863 


M.D.I     L.D 


MEMORIALS   OF 
WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK,   M.D.,  LL.D. 

Captain,   Assistant   Adjutant-General,    United   States    Volunteers, 
I 86 I -I 863 


WILLIAM  T.   LUSK 

[Editorial  from  The  Brooklyn  Eagle,  written  by  Harry  S.  Kmgsley.] 

The  sudden  death  of  Dr.  William  T.  Lusk  of  New 
York  by  apoplexy,  is  a  decided  loss  to  the  medical  pro- 
fession, a  distinct  weakening  of  the  ranks  of  good  citizen- 
ship, a  lamentable  wounding  of  the  hearts  of  not  a  few 
kindred  and  of  many  more  friends,  and  a  pathetic  example 
of  the  self-sacrificing  spirit  of  the  best  members  of  the 
calling  which  Dr.  Lusk  both  strengthened  and  adorned. 
He  wore  himself  down  by  faithful  and  earnest  work  as 
a  physician  and  a  surgeon,  and  by  unrewarded  and  noble 
effort  as  a  medical  instructor.  Although  warned  by  the 
monitions  of  decreasing  vigor  to  be  generous  to  his  own 
constitution  and  to  give  to  himself  that  right  of  rest  and 
recreation  which  he  had  grandly  earned,  he  withstood 
the  suggestion  out  of  a  sense  of  moral  and  professional 
duty  to  which  he  fell   a  veritable   martyr. 

His  was  an  admirable  career,  for  it  was  lived  for  others. 
His  was  a  benign  scholarship,  for  it  was  acquired  and 
spent  in  service  for  the  race.  His  was  a  noble  energy, 
because  it  went  out  to  heal,  to  save  and  to  comfort.  His 
was  a  magnificent  union  of  character  and   of  capacity, 

7 


8  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

of  genius  and  of  experience,  for  it  was  devoted  to  the  re- 
duction of  pain,  to  the  abatement  of  ills  and  to  the  preser- 
vation of  life.  Of  him  it  can  be  said  reverently  that  he 
saved  others  and  himself  he  would  not  save.  The  Great 
Physician,  the  title  by  which  the  Founder  of  Christianity 
is  so  often  and  so  tenderly  defined,  is  served  in  this  world 
by  thousands  in  His  image  who  grandly  work  in  His 
spirit.  Few  of  His  followers  ever  served  Him,  in  serving 
humanity,  better  than  did  William  T.  Lusk,  and  he  who 
would  not  permit  to  himself  the  respite  which  he  should 
have  taken  here,  has  gone  to  a  waiting  reward  where 
sickness  and  sorrow,  which  he  did  so  much  to  alleviate 
and  to  diminish,  are  unknown. 


MEMORIAL  NOTICE  OF  THE  MILITARY  ORDER 
OF  THE  LOYAL  LEGION  OF  THE  UNITED 

STATES 

New  York, 

August  2d,  1897. 

At  a  stated  meeting  of  this  Commandery  held  at  Del- 
monico's,  corner  of  Fifth  Avenue  and  Twenty-sixth  Street, 
the  following  was  adopted  as  the  report  of  the  Committee 
appointed  to  draft  resolutions  relative  to  Companion 
Captain  William  Thompson  Lusk,  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General,  United  States  Volunteers  (Insignia  No.  4,913), 
who  died  at  New  York,  N.  Y.,  June  12,  1897,  aged  fifty- 
nine  years. 

Report 

Companion  Captain  William  Thompson  Lusk  was 
born  in  Norwich,  Conn.,  on  May  23,  1838,  and  died  in 
this  city,  June  12,  1897.  As  a  boy  he  attended  a  private 
military  school  in  New  Haven,  and  entered  Yale  College 
in  the  class  of  '59,  but  left  at  the  close  of  the  Freshman 
year  as  he  was  strongly  attracted  to  the  study  of  chemistry 
and  physiology,  and  there  was  little  opportunity  for  pur- 
suing these  studies  except  in  the  regular  medical  course. 
He  devoted  two  years  to  the  study  of  medicine  in  Heidel- 
berg and  one  year  in  Berlin.  The  War  of  the  Rebellion 
called  him  home.  Joining  the  79th  Regiment,  New 
York  Volunteers,  Infantry,  in  June,  1861,  he  took  part 
in  the  battle  of  the  first  Bull  Run,  though  not  mustered 

9 


io  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

into  the  service.  He  was  commissioned  Second  Lieuten- 
ant in  the  same  regiment  September  19,  i86i,with  rank 
from  August  3;  Captain  February  24,  1862,  with 
rank  from  January  19,  1862.  Resigned  February  28, 
1863,  to  take  command  of  a  regiment  being  raised  in  New 
York  City,  at  the  request  of  Governor  Morgan.  Before 
the  regiment  was  recruited  he  joined  the  staff  of  General 
Daniel  Tyler,  and  was  commissioned  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General  with  the  rank  of  Captain  June  26,  1863.  Re- 
signed September  17,  1863. 

While  in  the  service  of  the  United  States  he  took  part 
in  the  battles  of  Blackburn's  Ford,  First  Bull  Run,  Port 
Royal,  Secessionville-on-James  Island,  Second  Bull  Run, 
Chantilly,  South  Mountain,  Antietam,  Fredericksburg, 
and  a  multitude  of  minor  engagements. 

Coming  to  New  York,  he  matriculated  at  the  Bellevue 
Hospital  Medical  College,  and  on  his  graduation  the 
following  year  he  was  valedictorian  of  his  class.  He  de- 
voted one  year  more  to  medical  studies  in  Edinburgh 
and  Paris,  Vienna  and  Prague.  In  1866  he  settled  in 
New  York  as  assistant  to  Dr.  Barker,  and  in  1869  was 
appointed  professor  in  physiology  at  the  Long  Island 
College  Hospital.  This  association  continued  for  two 
years,  when  he  received  an  invitation  from  Dr.  Oliver 
Wendell  Holmes  to  lecture  on  physiology  before  the 
Harvard  Medical  School,  and  passed  the  winter  of  1871 
in  Boston  lecturing  with  great  success.  The  chair  of 
obstetrics  in  the  Bellevue  School,  in  New  York,  having 
become  vacant  through  the  death  of  Dr.  George  T.  Elliot, 
the  position  was  offered  to  and  accepted  by  him,  and  he 
also  became  visiting  physician  at  the  Bellevue  Hospital. 

In  1882  he  published  his  celebrated  work  "The  Science 
and  Art  of  Midwifery."     It  had  an  immediate  and  im- 


MEMORIALS  m 

mense  sale  in  England  and  America,  and  made  Dr.  Lusk 
famous,  the  work  passing  through  foui  editions  and  being 
translated  into  several  languages.  Dr.  Lusk  was  for  a 
time  editor  of  the  New  York  Medical  Journal,  and  in 
that  and  other  periodicals  published  many  of  his  earlier 
articles. 

His  personality  was  a  prominent  and  popular  feature 
of  the  college  (Bellevue)  to  which  he  devoted  the  best 
years  of  his  medical  life,  and  his  genial,  unassuming 
manner  endeared  him  to  many  friends  throughout  this 
country  and  Europe. 

Among  the  offices  held  by  him  were  President  of  the 
Faculty  and  Professor  of  Obstetrics  and  of  the  Diseases 
of  Women  and  Children  in  Bellevue  Medical  College, 
Consulting  Physician  to  the  Maternity  Hospital  and  to 
the  Foundling  Asylum,  Visiting  Physician  to  the  Emer- 
gency Hospital,  Gynecologist  to  the  Bellevue  and  St. 
Vincent's  Hospitals,  Honorary  Fellow  of  the  Edinburgh 
and  London  Obstetrical  Societies,  Corresponding  Fellow 
of  the  Obstetrical  Societies  of  Paris  and  Leipsic  and  the 
Paris  Academy  of  Medicine,  President  of  the  American 
Gynecological  Society,  President  of  the  New  York  State 
Medical  Association,  and  Vice-President  of  the  New  York 
Obstetrical  Society. 

He  joined  this  Commandery  October  5,  1886,  and 
George  Washington  Post,  No.  103,  Dept.  New  York, 
G.  A.  R.,  March  17,  1887. 

This  committee  has  the  honor  to  submit  the  following 
resolution,  and  respectfully  recommend  its  adoption: 

Resolved,  That  the  New  York  Commanderv  of  the 
Loyal  Legion  of  the  United  States  receives  the  notice 
of  the  death  of  Dr.  William  Thompson  Lusk  with  un- 
feigned  regret,   and  with   a  thorough   realization   of  the 


12 


WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 


loss  to  the   medical   profession,   to  the  community,   and 
to  this  Commandery. 

Edward.  Haight, 

Brevet  Lieutenant-Colonel,  late  United 
States  Army. 
Andrew  D.  Baird,  \  Committee. 

Major,  United  States  Volunteers. 
Robert  Gair, 

Capt.,  United  States  Volunteers. 

By  order  of 

Major-Gen eral  Grenville  M.  Dodge, 

United  States  Volunteers,  Commander. 
A.  Noel  Blakeman, 
Acting  Assistant  Paymaster,  late  United  States 

Navy,  Recorder. 


ADDRESS   IN   MEMORY  OF  WILLIAM 
THOMPSON    LUSK,   M.D.,   LL.D. 

Delivered  before  the  New  York  Academy  <>i  Medicine,  Nov.  18, 
1897,  by  Dr.  A.  Alexander  Smith 

Dr.  William  Thompson  Lusk  was  born  May  23,  1838, 
at  Norwich,  Connecticut.  lie  spent  his  boyhood  days  at 
Norwich,  attending  the  Rev.  Albert  Spooner's  school 
with  a  view  to  preparation  for  Yale  College.  His  uncle 
examined  him  in  Latin,  and  told  him  that  although  well 
taught  it  was  by  the  old  method;  and  that  if  he  tried  to 
enter  Yale  College  on  that  preparation  he  would  be 
rejected.  Accordingly  leaving  Norwich  in  the  winter 
of  1853-54,  he  attended  Anthon's  Grammar  School  in 
Murray  Street,  New  York  City,  residing  in  the  family  of 
Dr.  and  Mrs.  Fordyce  Barker,  to  the  latter  of  whom  he 
was  related  by  marriage. 

The  winter  of  1854-55  he  was  sent  by  his  mother  to 
Russell's  Military  School  in  New  Haven,  because  of 
"the  great  advantage  he  will  derive  from  thorough  physi- 
cal training  in  the  gymnasium." 

In  1855  he  entered  the  Freshman  class  at  Yale  College, 
but  remained  only  one  year,  leaving  college  because  of 
difficulty  with  his  eyes.  Later,  in  1872,  he  was  enrolled 
with  his  class  by  the  action  of  the  Corporation,  and  then 
received  an  honorary  degree  of  A.M.  Later  still,  in 
1894,  Yale  conferred  on  him  the  honorary  degree  of 
LL.D. 

For  one  year  after  leaving  college  he  engaged  in  busi- 
ness, but  his  eyes  continuing  to  trouble  him,  and  having 

13 


i4  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

no  liking  for  business,  in  1858  he  went  abroad  to  consult 
a  distinguished  oculist,  Dr.  Monoyer,  at  Geneva.  He 
had  become  much  interested,  even  in  boyhood,  in  the 
study  of  chemistry  and  physiology,  and  after  a  short  stay 
in  Geneva,  he  went  to  Heidelberg  and  began  the  study 
of  medicine,  his  interest  in  chemistry  and  physiology 
leading  to  such  decision. 

He  remained  in  Heidelberg  two  years,  and  one  year  in 
Berlin,  coming  home  to  America  in  1861  to  enter  the  army. 
Governor  Buckingham  of  Connecticut  offered  him  a 
position  on  his  staff,  but  the  young  man  wishing  assured 
active  and  immediate  service,  enlisted  as  a  private  in 
the  79th  Highlanders,  New  York  Volunteers.  His  wish 
was  soon  gratified,  for  joining  the  regiment  in  June, 
1 861,  he  took  part  in  the  battle  of  the  First  Bull  Run, 
though  not  yet  mustered  into  service.  At  this  battle  he 
was  one  of  a  group  who  carried  the  dead  body  of  Colonel 
Cameron  of  the  79th  Highlanders  off  the  field,  it  being 
said  of  him  on  this  occasion,  that  he  walked  backward 
from  the  enemy  so  that  he  might  not  be  shot  in  the  back 
if  a  bullet  should  strike  him. 

He  was  commissioned  Second  Lieutenant  in  the  79th 
Regiment,  September  19,  1861,  with  rank  from  August  3. 
He  was  commissoned  Captain  February  24,  1862,  with 
rank  from  January  19.  He  resigned  February  28,  1863, 
at  the  request  of  Governor  Morgan,  to  take  command 
of  a  regiment  then  recruiting  in  New  York  City.  Before 
the  regiment  was  filled  he  joined  the  staff  of  General 
Daniel  Tyler,  and  was  commissioned  Assistant  Adjutant- 
General  with  rank  of  Captain,  June  26. 

While  in  the  service  of  the  United  States,  he  took  part 
in  the  battles  of  Blackburn's  Ford,  First  Bull  Run,  Port 
Royal,  Secessionville-on-James  Island,  Second   Bull  Run, 


MhMOKIALS  15 

Chantilly,  South    Mountain,   Antietam,   Fredericksburg, 

and    many  minor  engagements. 

Of  the  battle  of  Manassas  he  writes:  "  I  made  the  (  :harge 
armed  with   a  ram-rod    which    I    had    picked    up   on   my 

way  thither.  I  acknowledge  that  I  found  the  work 
hotter  than  I  anticipated." 

General  Isaac  I.  Stevens  in  his  official  report  of  the 
battle  of  James  Island,  South  Carolina,  in  June,  1862, 
writes:  "My  Assistant  Adjutant-General  was  in  all  parts 
of  the  field  carrying  my  orders  and  bringing  me  infor- 
mation, to  the  great  exposure  of  his  life,  as  was  Aid,  Cap- 
tain William  T.  Lusk." 

And  at  the  battle  of  Antietam,  in  September,  1862,  as 
Acting  Assistant  Adjutant-General  of  Colonel  Christ's 
brigade,  his  name  is  recorded  as  among  those  mentioned 
for  "gallant  and  meritorious  conduct  in  the  field,  and  for 
efficiency  in  their  departments." 

He  served  as  a  staff  officer  on  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens's 
Staff  for  a  considerable  period  of  time  preceding  the 
latter's  death  in  the  summer  of  1862. 

During  the  draft  riots  in  New  York  City,  in  1863, 
Captain  Lusk  commanded  two  companies  of  troops,  and 
was  stationed  at  Eighth  Avenue  and  Twenty-Third 
Street. 

During  his  service  in  the  army  he  had  two  horses  shot 
under  him,  once  had  his  belt  shot  off,  and  saw  his  79th 
Highlander  Regiment  of  one  thousand  men  reduced  to 
two  hundred  and  thirty  in  number,  yet  himself  never 
received  a  scratch. 

He  resigned  September  17,  1863,  when  his  troops  were 
sent  into  Delaware  and  put  on  the  inactive  list.  After 
his  resignation  he  came  to  New  York  and  completed 
his    medical    course    at    the    Bellevue    Hospital    Medical 


1 6  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

College,  graduating  in  1864  (March  3),  and  was  valedic- 
torian of  his  class. 

He  went  abroad  in  May,  1864,  for  further  study,  spend- 
ing four  months  in  Edinburgh  with  Sir  James  Y.  Simpson; 
six  months  in  Paris,  four  months  in  Vienna  with  Carl 
Braun,  and  two  months  in  Prague  with  Seifert. 

On  his  return  from  Europe  in  1865,  he  went  to  reside 
in  Bridgeport,  Connecticut,  where  he  became  associated 
with  Dr.  Robert  Hubbard  from  whom  he  claimed  to  have 
learned  much  of  the  art  of  how  to  practise  medicine. 

In  1866  he  came  to  New  York  and  became  associated 
with  Dr.  Fordyce  Barker,  which  association  continued 
until  1873. 

In  1869  he  was  made  "Professor  of  Physiology  and 
Microscopic  Anatomy"  in  the  Long  Island  College  Hos- 
pital.    This  position  he  held  until  1871. 

In  the  winter  of  1870-71,  at  the  request  of  Dr.  Oliver 
Wendell  Holmes,  he  delivered  a  course  of  lectures  on 
physiology  at  the  Harvard  Medical  School.*  This  course 
was  very  successful  and  he  was  led  to  expect  an  immedi- 
ate appointment  to  the  chair.  There  was,  however,  a 
little  delay,  during  which  time  he  was  offered  the  chair 
of  Obstetrics  and  Diseases  of  Women  and  Children  at 
the  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College,  made  vacant 
by  the  death  of  Dr.  George  T.  Elliot.  This  latter  he 
accepted  at  once,  and  a  few  hours  later  came  the  offer 
from  Harvard,  which,  of  course,  was  declined.  Through 
this  incident  New  York  became  his  permanent  resi- 
dence instead  of  Boston. 

He  held  the  chair  at  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  Col- 

*Dr.  Lusk  was  the  first  lecturer  on  physiology  at  the  Harvard 
Medical  School,  who  gave  a  course  which  was  accompanied  by 
experimental  demonstrations. 


MEMORIALS  17 

lege  from  April  4,  1 87 1 ,  up  to  the  time  of  his  death,  [uiM 
12,  1897. 

In  1870  he  was  appointed  Visiting  Physician  to  f he- 
Nursery  and  Childs'  Hospital. 

In  1 871  he  was  appointed  Obstetric  Surgeon  to  Bellevue 
Hospital. 

From  1 87 1  to  1873  he  was  co-editor  with  Dr.  James  13. 
Hunter,  of  the  New  York  Medical  Journal. 

From  1889  to  1897  he  was  President  of  the  Faculty  of 
the  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College. 

Other  positions  and  titles  he  held  or  had  held  were: 
Consulting  Physician  to  the  Maternity  Hospital  and  to 
the  Foundling  Asylum;  Consulting  Obstetrician  to  the 
Society  of  the  Lying-in  Hospital  of  the  City  of  New  York; 
Visiting  Obstetrician  to  the  Emergency  Hospital;  Gyne- 
cological Surgeon  to  St.  Vincent's  Hospital;  President 
of  the  American  Gynecological  Society;  Vice-President  of 
the  New  York  Obstetrical  Society;  President  of  the  New 
York  State  Medical  Association;  Honorary  President  of 
the  Obstetrical  Section  at  the  Berlin  Medical  Congress; 
Honorary  Fellow  of  the  Edinburgh  and  London  Obstetri- 
cal Societies;  Corresponding  Fellow  of  the  Obstetrical 
Societies  of  Paris  and  Leipsic;  Corresponding  Fellow  of 
the  Paris  Academy  of  Medicine. 

He  was  also  a  member  of  The  Military  Order  of  the 
Loyal  Legion  of  the  United  States  with  title  of  Captain, 
Assistant  Adjutant-General,  United  States  Volunteers. 

Dr.  Lusk  was  the  author  of  many  papers  on  various  med- 
ical subjects,  chiefly  on  obstetrics  and  gynecology.  He 
evinced  his  interest  and  training  in  physiology  by  occa- 
sional contributions  on  that  subject.  A  paper  on  the 
"Histological  Doctrines  of  Robin,"  a  paper  on  "Urae- 
mia, a   Common    Cause  of   Death    in  Uterine    Cancer," 


1 8  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

and  still  another  on  "Origin  of  Diabetes  with  Some 
New  Experiments  Regarding  the  Glycogenic  Function  of 
the  Liver,"  all  attest  this,  and  were  published  in  the  New 
York  Medical  Journal  during  the  time  he  was  one  of  the 
editors. 

A  paper  entitled:  "Nature,  Causes  and  Prevention  of 
Puerperal  Fever,"  read  before  the  International  Medical 
Congress  in  1876,  in  Philadelphia,  was  one  of  the  first 
in  support  of  the  germ  theory  of  disease,  which  then 
created  considerable  interest.  When  Koch's  paper  ap- 
peared in  1882  on  the  isolation  of  the  tubercle  bacillus, 
Dr.  Lusk  accepted  its  conclusions  enthusiastically,  re- 
garding such  conclusions  as  offering  the  only  satisfactory 
scientific  explanation  of  the  origin  and  spread  not  only 
of  tuberculosis,  but  also  of  many  other  diseases. 

The  first  edition  of  his  monumental  work  "The  Science 
and  Art  of  Midwifery,"  appeared  in  1882,  and  has  gone 
through  four  editions.  The  last  edition,  published  in 
1892,  Dr.  Lusk  regarded  as  practically  a  new  book,  it 
having  been  largely  rewritten.  In  1895  he  appended  a 
chapter  on  symphysiotomy.  It  was  his  intention  during 
the  summer  of  1897  to  revise  the  book  again  and  issue 
a  fifth  edition. 

The  work  has  been  translated  into  French,  Italian, 
Spanish,  and  Arabic. 

When  the  book  was  about  to  be  issued,  the  plan  of  it 
was  submitted  to  an  eminent  obstetrician  of  New  York, 
whose  opinion  was  highly  valued  by  both  author  and 
publisher,  and  whose  criticism  was  that  it  would  certainly 
fail  of  success  unless  the  plan  were  changed.  Dr.  Lusk 
refused  to  change  the  plan  and  said:  "It  must  go  before 
the  profession  on  its  merits  without  such  change." 

A  few  months  after  it  was  published,  the  writer  of  this 


MEMORIALS  ig 

address  asked  him  as  to  the  sale  of  it.  His  response  was 
quire  characteristic  of  his  well  known  modesty:  "As 
well,  quite  as  well  probably  as  it  deserves,  there  are  still 

four  hundred  copies  unsold.  I  am  desirous  of  iv.nur'  a 
second, and, as  1  think, a  much  improved  edition."  Within 
a  few  clays  on  meeting  him  again,  he  said:  "I  he  second 
edition  must  come  out  at  once;  the  publishers  have  just 
received  an  order  from  London  for  nine  hundred  copies." 

This  work  added  greatly  to  his  reputation  both  at  home 
and  abroad.  While  its  trend  is  decidedly  German,  the 
clinical  aspect  of  it  is  the  result  of  New  York   practice. 

Dr.  Lusk  married  May  4,  1864,  Miss  Mary  Hartwell 
Chittenden,  daughter  of  Mr.  S.  B.  Chittenden,  of  Brook- 
lyn. She  died  in  1871.  Of  this  marriage  there  were 
born  five  children,  one  of  whom  died  in  infancy.  Two 
daughters  and  two  sons  survive.  One  son,  Graham,  is 
Professor  of  Physiology  in  the  Medical  Department  of 
Yale  University,  and  the  other,  William  O,  is  a  practicing 
physician  in  this  city. 

He  married  again  in  1876,  Mrs.  Matilda  Thorn  (nee 
Myer),  who  died  in  1892.  Of  this  marriage  a  daughter 
survives. 

Dr.  Lusk's  eminence  as  an  author,  a  teacher,  and  a 
practitioner,  made  his  name  well  known.  His  charming 
personality  and  his  genial,  hearty  manner  brought  him 
many  friends.  Modest  as  to  his  own  attainments,  he 
was  ever  ready  and  cordial  in  his  praise  of  the  work  of 
others.  He  was  a  loyal  friend  and  a  generous  antagonist. 
He  wTas  sometimes  impulsive  but  always  just  and  magnani- 
mous. He  was  sincere,  and  unselfishly  devoted  to  duty; 
qualities  which  always  command  respect  and  admiration. 
No  efforts  were  too  great  for  him  when  sufferine  called 
for  his  services;    indeed  he  often  worked  for  others  to 


20  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

the  detriment  of  his  own  health.  He  was  ever  ready 
to  take  responsibility  when  necessary,  but  he  was  always 
conservative  in  his  judgment.  With  his  colleagues  in 
college  work,  he  was  always  the  affectionate  and  warm- 
hearted co-laborer,  and  intensely  interested  in  it. 

He  was  the  counsellor  and  friend  to  young  men.  Well 
mie;ht  be  applied  to  him  the  sentiment  he  expressed  in 
the  dedication  of  the  first  edition  of  his  book,  to  Dr. 
Fordyce  Barker,  "Generosity  toward  the  younger  mem- 
bers of  the  profession." 


MEMOIR   OF  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK, 

M.I).' 

BY   AUSTIN    FLINT,    M.D.,    OF    NEW    YORK    COUNTY 

William  Thompson  Lusk:  was  born  May  23,  1838, 
and  died  June  12,  1897. 

The  death  of  a  truly  great  and  good  physician,  at  the 
zenith  of  his  fame  and  in  the  full  development  of  his 
powers,  is  indeed  a  loss.  On  June  12,  I  saw  Dr.  Lusk, 
in  full  vigor  and  health,  at  work  in  his  private  hospital. 
An  hour  later,  his  gentle  spirit  had  passed  away,  and  his 
useful  and  laborious  life  was  ended. 

From  the  time  of  his  graduation  in  medicine  in  1864  to 
the  hour  of  his  death,  he  had  devoted  his  best  energies 
to  the  study  and  advancement  of  the  science  of  medicine. 
The  history  of  his  professional  life  has  been  written  by 
himself.  The  thousands  of  physicians  who  had  the  bene- 
fit of  his  instruction  will  long  hold  him  in  grateful  remem- 
brance; and  the  public  institutions  with  which  he  was 
connected  will  long  feel  the  influence  of  his  wise  counsels 
and  faithful  and  disinterested  work.  His  associates  and 
personal  friends  may  well  say,  "we  shall  not  look  upon 
his  like  again. "  The  honors  which  he  received  at  home 
and  abroad  engendered  no  feeling  of  envy  in  the  hearts 
of  his  friends  and  professional  associates,  but  were  re- 
garded as  merited  recognition  of  his  valuable  services 
to  science  and  humanity.  His  sturdy  honesty  of  purpose, 
with  his  delicate  sense  of  honor  and  exquisite  gentleness 

'Read  at  a  meeting  of  the  New  York  County  Medical  Association,  Oct.  iS,  1S97. 

21 


22  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

of  character  and  manner,  impressed  all  with  whom  he 
came  in  contact;  and  his  friends,  as  well  as  he  himself, 
were  as  much  astonished  as  grieved  at  any  evidences  of 
antagonism  or  ill-will,  which  few  positive  and  fearless 
characters  are  fortunate  enough  to  escape. 

The  memory  of  Dr.  Lusk  should  be  peculiarly  dear  to 
the  Fellows  of  this  Association.  When  it  was  deemed 
wise  by  certain  of  us,  in  the  interests  of  the  whole  pro- 
fession, to  organize  the  State  Medical  Association  in 
1884,  Dr.  Lusk  was  one  of  its  Founders.  In  the  same 
year,  he  participated  in  the  foundation  of  the  County 
Association,  and  signed  the  articles  of  incorporation  in 
1890.  He  was  President  of  the  State  Association  in  1889 
and  contributed  largely  to  its  scientific  proceedings  as 
well  as  to  the  work  of  the  County  Association.  In  all 
discussions  and  controversies  within  the  profession,  when 
necessary,  Dr.  Lusk  had  the  courage  of  his  convictions, 
but  without  malice  and  with  charity  for  all.  He  readily 
forgave  every  slight  or  injury,  fancied  or  real. 

With  Dr.  Lusk's  brilliant  public  career  since  1864,  I 
am  entirely  familiar,  and  the  life  of  his  early  manhood 
is  consistent  with  the  later  character  we  knew  and  ad- 
mired. Having  passed  the  three  years  previous  to  1861 
in  the  study  of  medicine  and  the  allied  sciences  in  Heidel- 
berg and  Berlin,  his  patriotism  recalled  him  in  the  hour 
of  the  nation's  peril,  to  enlist  as  a  private  in  the  79th 
Highlanders,  New  York  Volunteers,  in  1861.  He  served 
as  private,  second  lieutenant,  captain,  and  assistant  ad- 
jutant-general until  late  in  1863,  and  participated  in 
many  important  engagements.  I  made  his  acquaintance 
when  he  was  in  command  of  a  detachment  in  Gramercy 
Park  during  the  draft  riots  of  1863.  In  1863-64,  he 
completed  his  medical  education  and  was  graduated   at 


MEMORIALS 


n 


the  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College.  After  gradua- 
tion, he  studied  in  Edinburgh,  Paris,  Vienna,  and  Prague. 
Me  practiced  medicine  one  pear  in  Bridgeport,  Conn.,  in 
connection  with  Dr.  Hubbard.  In  [866,  he  became  a 
permanent  resident  of  the  city  of  New  York.  In  1867, 
he  became  my  pupil  and  prepared  himself  to  teach  physi- 
ology, occupying  the  Chair  of  Physiology  in  the  Long 
Island  College  Hospital,  from  1868  to  187 1.  In  the  year 
1870-71,  he  lectured  on  physiology  in  the  Harvard  Med- 
ical School,  and  at  the  close  of  that  session,  he  was  ap- 
pointed Professor  of  Obstetrics  and  Diseases  of  Women 
and  Children  in  the  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College, 
which  professorship  he  filled  until  the  time  of  his  death. 
In  1889,  he  was  elected  President  of  the  Faculty. 

With  all  his  great  acquirements,  Dr.  Lusk  was  modest 
even  to  the  point  of  diffidence.  It  may  be  said,  perhaps, 
that  this  quality  was  so  marked  that  the  value  of  his 
instruction  was  not  at  first  fully  appreciated,  but  it  was 
not  long  before  he  assumed  great  prominence  as  a  public 
teacher.  The  same  quality  influenced  the  early  part  of 
his  literary  career.  Although  he  had  ably  edited  the 
New  York  Medical  'Journal,  in  connection  with  Dr. 
James  B.  Hunter,  from  1871  to  1873,  and  before  writing 
his  book  on  "Midwifery"  had  published  many  valuable 
papers,  he  long  hesitated  to  attempt  the  preparation  of  a 
systematic  treatise.  I  urged  him  to  write  a  text-book  on 
obstetrics,  with  a  persistence  and  insistence  that  prevailed 
at  the  end  of  two  years.  In  1881,  he  published  his  great 
work  on  the  "Science  and  Art  of  Midwifery."  This  work 
immediately  took  its  place  as  the  best  text-book  on  the 
subject  in  the  English  language.  He  labored  on  it 
faithfully  to  the  time  of  his  death,  and  improved  and 
extended    it    in    subsequent   editions.     It   has    had    four 


24  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

American  editions  and  has  been  translated  into  French, 
Italian,  Spanish,  and  Arabic. 

The  publication  of  this  book,  particularly  of  the  later 
editions,  marked  the  culmination  of  the  author's  fame 
as  a  teacher  and  writer.  Honors  were  heaped  upon  him. 
He  received  the  degree  of  LL.D.  from  Yale  University; 
he  was  elected  Honorary  Fellow  of  the  Edinburgh  and 
London  Obstetrical  Societies;  Corresponding  Fellow  of  the 
Obstetrical  Societies  of  Paris  and  Leipsic;  Correspond- 
ing Fellow  of  the  Paris  Academy  of  Medicine,  etc.  He 
was  no  less  famous  as  a  practitioner  and  was  consulted 
largely  in  the  city  of  New  York  and  elsewhere.  His 
frequent  visits  abroad,  where  he  often  read  papers  before 
learned  societies,  made  his  foreign  friends  acquainted 
with  his  charming  personality.  He  was  taken  away  in 
the  height  of  his  fame  and  prosperity. 

No  eulogy  of  mine  can  add  to  the  nobly  earned  and 
well  deserved  reputation  of  Dr.  Lusk;  but  I  esteem  it  a 
precious  privilege  to  pay  this  tribute  to  his  memory  which 
lives  in  the  hearts  of  his  thousands  of  pupils  and  tens  of 
thousands  of  readers.  He  was  a  true  and  reliable  friend 
and  had  no  enmities,  a  most  accomplished  physician,  an 
original  thinker  and  observer,  a  laborious  and  success- 
ful investigator  and  a  gentleman  in  the  highest  sense  of 
the  word. 


IN  MEMORIAM.1    WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK, 
M.D.,  LL.D. 

BY    HENRY    C.    COF,    M.D.,    NF.W    YORK 

Soon  after  we  parted  for  the  summer  an  honored 
Fellow  of  our  Society  suddenly  passed  into  the  unknown. 
Death  has  singularly  spared  our  company  during  the  past 
decade,  but  when  he  rudely  summoned  one  of  our  noblest 
and  best,  we  felt  that  the  breaking  up  of  our  goodly  fellow- 
ship had  indeed  begun.  The  pathetic  cry  of  the  Litany 
was  not  answered,  but  who  can  say  that  it  was  not  best  ? 
His  end  was  unostentatious,  like  his  life.  In  the  midst 
of  restless  activity,  at  the  period  of  a  well-rounded  career, 
he  went  apart  and  fell  asleep.  To  be  spared  the  decay  of 
mental  and  physical  powers,  to  depart  at  the  moment 
of  victory  —  was  not  this  the  enviable  lot  of  the  father 
of  the  Olympian  victor  whom  the  ancient  philosopher 
declared  to  be  the  happiest  of  men  ? 

Others  will  utter  more  elaborate  and  fitting  eulogies; 
be  it  our  mournful,  though  pleasant,  duty  to  offer  a  simple 
tribute  to  the  memory  of  one  who  met  with  us  here  in 
the  years  that  are  gone,  and  whose  gracious  influence 
rests  upon  us  as  a  benediction.  I  might  speak  eloquently 
of  Dr.  Lusk's  international  influence  upon  obstetric 
medicine,  of  his  classical  book,  his  numerous  contribu- 
tions to  current  literature,  of  the  impress  which  he  left 
upon  his  students  —  but  here,  among  those  who  knew 
him  best,  we  think  of  him  rather  as  the  kindlv  associate, 
the   fine   type   of  the   physician   and    gentleman,   which, 

1Read  before  the  New  York  Obstetrical  Society,  Oct.  19,  1897. 
25 


26  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

pray  Heaven,  may  never  become  wholly  extinct  in  this 
age  of  fierce  competition,  when  it  sometimes  seems  as  if 
our  noble  profession  were  in  danger  of  degenerating  into 
a  trade. 

Although  it  might  seem  more  proper  that  one  of  his 
own  contemporaries  should  perform  this  duty,  there  is 
a  certain  fitness  in  the  tribute  coming  from  us  of  a  younger 
generation  to  whom  he  was  at  once  teacher,  example, 
and  friend.  If,  in  mystic  faith  of  Swedenborg,  the  de- 
parted are  still  with  us  in  spirit,  sharing  in  our  daily  life, 
it  would  be  most  distasteful  to  him  to  hear  words  of 
fulsome  flattery,  who  was  himself  so  modest  and  retiring 
that,  like  the  wise  Athenian,  he  ever  held  that  "he  only 
knew  that  he  knew  nothing."  I  shall  refer  only  to  Dr. 
Lusk's  relations  to  the  Obstetrical  Society.  Our  old 
volumes  of  Transactions  furnish  most  interesting,  nay 
even,  inspiring  reading.  The  list  of  founders  far  back 
in  1863  is  a  list  of  intellectual  giants,  of  whom  we  may 
well  be  proud.  To  them  Lusk  was  one  of  the  young 
and  rising  men.  Admitted  to  the  Society  in  1872,  he 
was  Vice-President  the  following  year,  and  was  elected 
President  in  1879,  when  most  of  us  were  in  college,  or 
were  just  beginning  the  study  of  medicine.  I  have  looked 
through  all  the  transactions  of  the  last  quarter  of  a  cen- 
tury and  find  abundant  evidence  of  his  mental  activity 
and  interest  in  the  Society.  His  papers  and  clinical 
reports  are  marked  by  the  same  peculiarity,  which  was 
only  accentuated  in  his  later  years  —  a  disposition  to 
publish  unfavorable  rather  than  successful  results,  when 
it  seemed  to  him  that  they  taught  a  valuable  lesson. 

Promptness  in  acknowledging  errors  in  diagnosis  and 
technique,  a  tendency  to  criticize  himself  more  severely 
than  others  would  criticize  him,  an  earnest  desire  to  point 


MEMORIALS  27 

out  the  way  by  which  his  confrere*  could  avoid  his  mistakei 
— this  was  the  marked  charactei  i.i  i<  "I  .ill  his  public  utter- 
ances. The  modest,  self-depreciating  manner  with  which 
we  were  so  familiar,  increased  with  advancing  age  and 
experience.  Quick  to  seize  upon  ;ill  that  \\;is  good  in 
new  theories  and  surgical  methods,  he  was  preeminently 
conservative  and  allowed  younger  and  bolder  spirits  to 
push  ahead,  while  he  waited  and  thoroughly  tested  the 
old  ways  before  he  abandoned  them  for  the  new.  This 
mental  attitude,  which  rendered  him  such  a  safe  teacher, 
constituted  him  a  sort  of  balance-wheel  in  many  discus- 
sions in  which  advanced,  or  what  then  seemed  heroic, 
methods  were  generally  advocated.  Whenever  Lusk 
spoke,  in  his  quiet,  modest  way,  none  of  his  hearers  had 
any  doubt  that  he  was  thoroughly  in  earnest,  and  that  the 
sentiments  which  he  expressed  were  those  which  influ- 
enced his  daily  work.  So  unobtrusive  was  his  manner 
that  even  we  who  knew  him  so  well  often  forgot  that  his 
words  carried  weight  all  over  the  world,  and  when  uttered 
in  foreign  medical  associations,  were  received  as  the  dicta 
of  a  master.  Thus  has  it  ever  been  that  "a  prophet  is 
not  without  honor  save  in  his  own  country." 

We  do  not  recall  that  Dr.  Lusk  ever  sought  to  pose  as 
an  innovator,  nor  did  he  read  a  paper  before  this  Society 
which  advocated  any  new  or  startling  procedure.  He 
seemed  to  feel  that  his  mission  was  to  weigh  carefully 
new  facts  and  to  compare  them  with  the  old,  to  warn 
against  too  sweeping  generalizations,  and  the  too  ready 
adoption  of  radical  methods.  When  he  had  occasion  to 
introduce  the  personal  pronoun  it  was  alwavs  apolo- 
getically. His  was  the  reverent  agnosticism  of  true  science. 
He  had  no  sympathy  with  loud  pretensions,  nor  did  he 
seek  to  be  "heard  for  his  much  speaking."     Of  late  vears 


28  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

he  came  but  rarely  to  our  meetings,  and  then  always 
because  he  felt  that  he  had  some  special  message  to 
deliver. 

It  would  be  a  great  mistake  to  infer  that  because  he 
was  by  nature,  as  well  as  by  choice,  conservative,  Dr. 
Lusk  was  not  fully  abreast  of  modern  surgery.  I  doubt 
if  there  is  one  here  present  who  followed  more  closely  the 
work  of  foreign  operators,  not  in  the  library,  but  by 
actual  attendance  at  their  clinics.  His  active,  restless 
mind  was  like  a  sensitive  photographic  plate,  which  needed 
only  an  instant's  exposure  to  the  light  of  truth  in  order 
to  retain  a  lasting  impression.  He  was  keenly  alive  to 
all  that  was  transpiring  in  the  medical  world,  and  you  will 
remember  the  deep  interest  which  he  manifested  in  the 
work  of  his  younger  brethren  in  this  city.  If  a  new  or 
especially  difficult  operation  was  to  be  performed,  Lusk 
was  sure  to  be  on  hand.  Such  a  man  might  be  called 
"conservative,"  but  his  conservatism  was  the  outgrowth 
of  wide  observation  and  experience;  it  was  not  a  volun- 
tary mental  stagnation,  due  to  ignorance  of  the  vast 
progress  of  modern  surgery. 

We  recall  with  mournful  tenderness  the  kindly  attitude 
of  our  lost  friend  in  public  debate.  He  was  ever  con- 
siderate of  his  opponent's  feelings  —  a  gentleman  in  the 
original  interpretation  of  the  word,  with  a  fine  sense  of 
the  fitness  of  things  and  a  never-failing  courtesy  that 
disarmed  all  irritation.  How  these  traits  are  remembered 
now,  when  he,  alas!  is  only  a  memory.  The  keen,  eager, 
kindly  face,  the  earnest  air,  the  low  voice,  never  raised 
in  harsh  answer  or  biting  criticism — these,  with  the  bright 
smile  of  welcome,  the  warm  hand-clasp,  all  are  gone 
forever. 


MEMORIALS  29 

"To  lose  him  from  oui  1  agei  Icen, 

To  lose  In',  thoughts,  to  ripeness  frown, 
To  lose  Ins  presence,  are  ;is  when 
A  richly-freighted  slu j >  goes  down." 

As  he  was  here,  so  we  knew  him  in  his  work.  He  was 
too  broad  for  petty  rivalries  and  jealousies,  too  honest 
and  consistent  to  swerve  a  hair's  breadth  from  the  straight 
course  which  he  had  marked  out,  either  to  win  or  to  keep 
patients.  If  he  thought  that  an  operation  was  not  indi- 
cated, no  man,  no  financial  consideration,  could  induce 
him  to  perform  it.  He  might  feel  keenly  the  adverse 
criticism  of  his  associates,  but  he  adhered  to  his  own 
standard  of  right.  Professional  honor  was  not  an  empty 
name  to  him,  but  an  integral  part  of  himself.  Its  influence 
pervaded  his  work  in  the  consulting-room,  at  the  hospital, 
wherever  he  came  in  contact  with  men  and  women. 

From  this  Society  he  went  out  to  practise  what  he 
preached.  We  sometimes  disagreed  with  him;  some  of 
us  thought,  perhaps,  that  he  was  a  little  old-fashioned, 
but  we  honored  him  for  his  consistency  and  recognized 
in  him  a  true  Bayard,  sans  peur  et  sans  reproche.  It 
would  be  pleasant  to  review  our  social  relations  with 
Dr.  Lusk,  to  recall  the  many  delightful  qualities  which 
rendered  him  so  beloved,  but  I  believe  that  every  man  who 
has  lost  a  friend  cherishes  some  memory  of  the  departed 
which  is  peculiarly  his  own,  and  which  it  is  not  fitting 
to  subject  to  cold  analysis.  It  was  good  for  us  to  have 
been  with  him,  for  none  touched  him  in  the  press  of  life 
ever  so  slightly  without  perceiving  the  aroma  shed  only 
by  the  pure  in  heart. 

You  remember  the  touching  description  of  how  the 
Doctor  of  the  old  school  was  borne  to  his  last  resting-place. 
"Surely  no  funeral  is  like  unto  that  of  a  doctor  for  pathos," 


3o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

we  read:  but  in  the  last  splendid  tribute  paid  to  our 
friend  by  his  professional  brethren  one  felt  that  through 
the  requiem  ran  a  strain  of  triumphal  music.  And  in 
after  years  it  will  be  said  of  him,  as  was  said  of  the  first 
Napoleon:  "Something  great  and  good  must  have  been 
in  this  man,  something  loving  and  kindly,  that  has  kept 
his  name  so  cherished  in  the  popular  memory  and  gained 
him  such  lasting  reverence  and  affection. " 

Sad  indeed  is  the  man  who  is  remembered  only  for 
the  books  which  he  has  written,  the  operations  which 
he  has  performed,  or  the  wealth  which  he  has  amassed 
during  a  long  and  successful  professional  career.  But 
thrice  happy  he  who,  like  our  lost  brother,  leaves  not 
only  these  evidences  of  a  well-spent  life,  but  a  precious 
memory,  cherished  in  the  hearts  of  those  made  happier 
and  better  by  his  living.  When  we  think  of  our  illustrious 
dead  our  Society  seems  lifted  to  a  higher  plane.  Surely 
we  are  surrounded  by  a  great  cloud  of  witnesses.  The 
superb  Peaslee,  the  magnetic  Sims,  the  genial  Taylor, 
Barker's  kingly  presence,  and  now  the  gentle  spirit  which 
has  been  absorbed  into  the  Eternal  Light.  What  a  rich 
heritage  is  ours!  How  great  is  our  inspiration  to  carry 
on  the  work  which  they  began,  with  the  same  enthusiasm, 
the  same  zeal  for  pure  truth!  Let  us  too  see  to  it  that  no 
narrow  personal  aims,  no  petty  dissensions  prevent  the 
fulfilment  of  this  sacred  duty.  As,  one  by  one,  our  elders 
turn  aside  to  the  wayside  inn,  let  us  cherish  those  who 
remain.  They  may  seem  old-fashioned  or  slow  to  adopt 
new  ideas.  But  old  fashions  are  often  the  best  fashions, 
and  many  of  our  "new"  ideas  were  conceived  years 
before  we  re-discovered  them.  May  no  regrets  be  ours 
when  we  think  after  they  have  gone  how  little  we  appre- 
ciated them  when  they  were  still  with  us! 


MEMORIALS  31 

We  offer  our  poor,  imperfect  tribute  Co  the  memory 
of  one  who  lived  among  us  so  quietly  and  unostentatiously 
that  few  realized  how  rare  and  lovable  was  his  character. 
Only  two  days  before  his  death  he  uttered  these  prophetic 
words:  "I  do  not  care  to  have  any  resolutions  offered 
about  me  after  I  am  gone."  It  is  in  accordance  with  his 
last  wish  that  I  point  you  to  the  story  of  his  life  as 
his  best  eulogy. 

Note:  On  March  22,  1887,  Dr.  Lusk  performed  the  second  successful 
operation  of  Cesarean  section  in  New  York  City,  saving  the  lives  of 
both  mother  and  child,  the  first  having  been  done  in  the  year  1838. 
There  had  been  in  this  country,  prior  to  this  time,  but  one  other  case 
where  the  mother  as  well  as  the  child  had  survived  (Dr.  H.  F.  Biggar, 
Cleveland,  Obio,  Dec,  1886).  In  reporting  (in  1888)  three  successful 
cases  performed  by  himself  within  little  more  than  a  year,  Dr.  Lusk 
writes:  "...  it  is  my  highest  pleasure  to  acknowledge  my  obligations 
to  Sanger,  and  to  add  my  tribute  to  the  glory  he  has  justly  won." 


VALEDICTORY  ADDRESS  OF  WILLIAM 
THOMPSON  LUSK 

Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  College,  1864 


William   Thompson    Lusk 


VALEDICTORY    ADDRESS    OF    WILLIAM 

THOMPSON  LUSK  ON  HIS  GRADUATION 
FROM  THE  BELLEVUE  HOSPITAL  MEDICAL 
COLLEGE,  1864 

In  entering  upon  a  professional  career  there  are  few 
subjects  that  more  nearly  interest  the  neophyte  than  the 
way  to  achieve  success. 

Now  the  successful  physician  may  be  sui  generis.  "  I 
have  done  well,"  says  Dr.  Radcliffe,  "by  bullying  my 
patients."  While  Sir  John  Arbuthnot,  tickling  the  ears 
of  Queen  Anne  with  courtly  compliments,  likewise  does 
well,  becoming  the  Queen's  favorite  physician.  Possibly 
address  without  merit  may  be  successful,  the  public  be- 
ing the  judges.  But  the  lives  of  those  most  famous  in 
our  profession  teach  us  another  lesson. 

I  take  as  a  type  case,  Dr.  Jenner,  to  whom  the  human 
race  owes  a  debt  of  gratitude  greater  than  was  ever  be- 
fore earned  by  any  living  man.  He  had  no  eccentricities 
—  no  peculiar  personal  qualities  to  win  him  favor —  but 
he  had  the  rarest  habits  of  industry.  Slowly  and  patiently 
we  find  him  laboring  at  his  life's  work,  knowing  that 
nature  only  reveals  her  secrets  little  by  little  to  such  as 
unweariedly  scrutinize  her  ways.  Yet  he  was  very  quick 
to  catch  every  thought  dropped  n  his  presence.  It  was 
in  his  student  days  that  he  first  heard  a  young  peasant 
woman,  at  the  office  of  his  preceptor,  saying,  "I  cannot 
take  the  small-pox;  I  have  had  the  cow-pox,"  which 
immediately  set  him  to  thinking.     And  gradually  in  his 

35 


36  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

mind  the  conception  begins  to  assume  the  importance  of 
a  discovery.  He  communicates  to  one  or  two  trusted 
friends  the  hopes  and  fears  alternating  in  his  bosom.  He 
studies  the  subject  of  vaccination  from  every  point  of 
view.  He  goes  on  year  after  year,  subjecting  his  theo- 
ries to  new  tests,  and  more  searching  methods  of  analy- 
sis. With  the  true  scientific  spirit  he  wishes  to  add  facts 
to  facts  beyond  the  point  of  conviction,  up  to  the  exclusion 
of  every  possibility  of  error.  Thus  for  twenty  years  he 
steadily  pursues  his  investigations,  and  then,  at  length, 
offers  to  the  world  perfected  his  simple  plan  for  control- 
ling the  most  frightful  disease  that  ever  cursed  the  human 
race.  It  is  curious  to  read  how  the  views  he  entertained 
were  first  received.  The  public  of  course  was  incredu- 
lous. I  regret  to  say  the  profession  was  hardly  less  scep- 
tical. Ridicule  was  rampant.  Dr.  Jenner  was  painted 
riding  on  a  cow.  Children  after  vaccination  were  repre- 
sented as  bellowing  and  running  on  all  fours,  while  grown 
persons  became  shaggy  with  hair  and  the  possessors  of 
superfluous  horns  and  tails. 

Dr.  Jenner,  conscious  of  being  right,  is  tranquil  under 
all  this  storm  of  ridicule,  and  still  labors  patiently  on  to 
accomplish  the  object  nearest  his  heart,  viz:  to  make  the 
public  and  the  profession  aware  of  the  magnitude  of  his 
discovery.  At  the  present  day  among  the  valued  treas- 
ures of  the  British  Museum  is  the  skin  of  the  cow  that 
furnished  the  first  vaccine  virus  to  Dr.  Jenner,  a  prouder 
memorial  of  his  greatness  than  the  proudest  inscription 
in  Westminster  Abbey.  The  boon  conferred  by  him  on 
humanity  makes  us  wonder  at  the  power  for  good  to  be 
derived  from  the  labors  of  a  single  man.  The  work  of 
Dr.  Jenner  will  serve  as  a  type-case  to  show  what  may 
prove  the  result  of  a  well  spent  life  of  industry.     He  was 


VALEDICTORY  37 

able  to  say  in  his  last  moments,  "I   do  not  wonder  thai 
men  are  grateful  to  me,  but  I  am  surprised  that  they  are 

not   grateful   to   God   for   making   me   an    instrument   of 
good." 

Next,  the  physician,  to  he  successful,  needs  to  cultivate 
tact,  hy  which  I  mean  intuitiveness  of  perception,  fitting 
one  to  act  hefore  thought  has  had  time  to  form,  each 
individual  sense  being,  in  a  measure,  capable  of  a  n  a 
of  its  own.  It  is  the  exercise  of  this  faculty,  that  con- 
stitutes the  true  Art  of  Medicine.  It  is  not  a  natural 
gift,  but,  Sydenham  tells  us,  "must  be  learned  hy  use  and 
experience."  It  includes  all  powers  of  observation,  all 
acuteness,  all  quickness  of  apprehension,  and  holds  them 
ready  for  duty  at  command  the  moment  the  foot  crosses 
the  threshold  of  the  sick  chamber.  It  derives  fresh 
strength  from  each  successive  bedside.  It  will  not  be 
trammelled  by  routine.  It  guides  nature  in  disease,  and 
does  not  kill  by  over-officiousness. 

Only  one  thing  more  is  lacking  to  make  the  good 
physician.  Skilled  he  may  be  in  the  Art,  pursuing  it  with 
a  spirit  of  devotion,  he  still  needs  to  be  imbued  with  an 
earnest  spirit  of  humanity,  his  heart  never  closing  to  the 
voice  of  sorrow.  Avarice  must  not  deafen  his  ears  to 
the  pleadings  of  poverty.  The  same  courtly  spirit,  the 
same  considerate  regard  governs  the  true  physician,  alike 
when  the  poorest  patient  appeals  to  his  sense  of  pity 
and  gratitude,  or  the  sense  of  duty  done  is  his  only  repay- 
ment, as  when  summoned  to  the  bedside  of  those  who 
cannot  too  bountifully  reward  the  skill  that  affords  relief 
from  pain,  or  immunity  from  a  life  of  suffering.  Dr. 
Fothergill,  who  practised  in  London  a  century  ago  with 
unparalleled  success,  says,  "I  follow  my  business  because 
it  is  my  duty,   and   I  banish   all  thoughts  of  practising 


38  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

physic  as  a  money-getting  trade,  with  the  same  solicitude 
as  I  would  the  suggestions  of  vice  or  intemperance," 
and  to  him  who  practises  in  such  a  spirit,  the  old  saying 
"Dat  Galenus  Opes"  deserves  to  be  true. 

The  heart  though  habituated  to  scenes  of  sorrow  needs 
not  to  grow  callous.  Cheselden,  whose  marvellous  dex- 
terity, coolness  and  presence  of  mind  never  for  an  instant 
forsook  him  at  the  operating  table,  would  grow  sick  only 
a  few  moments  before,  at  the  thought  of  the  pain  to  be 
inflicted,  this  delicacy  of  feeling  not  hindering  him  in 
the  performance  of  his  professional  duties,  but  serving 
rather  as  a  stimulus  quickening  him  to  new  acts  of  mercy. 

Only  these  three  things  I  claim,  industry,  tact,  and 
kindness,  all  capable  of  cultivation,  are  essential  to  the 
success  of  the  young  physician.  We  do  not  need  to  search 
through  old  records  to  verify  this.  Men  still  deserve  and 
win  success  as  in  the  days  of  Jenner.  We  owe  gratitude 
to  the  living  as  well  as  to  the  dead. 

Let  us  turn  for  a  moment  to  see  how  our  science  stands 
in  the  present.  Science  is  progressive  and  to-day  is  better 
than  yesterday.  Men  nowadays  only  say  Credo  to  posi- 
tive demonstrable  facts.  Students  of  nature  are  every- 
where busy  eliminating  errors  perpetuated  by  compilers 
of  books.  Mere  names  are  no  longer  entitled  to  rever- 
ence. Time-honored  theories  are  challenged,  and  the 
most  precious  traditions  rejected  if  they  do  not  accord 
with  carefully  conducted  observations.  Laws  of  disease 
are  derived  from  bedside  records.  A  flood  of  light  has 
been  shed  upon  our  science  by  the  study  of  the  functions 
of  health.  The  microscope  helps  us  to  solve  many  mys- 
teries. But  we  accept  nothing  that  cannot  be  demon- 
strated by  actual  experiment  guarded  against  all  chances 
of  error.     Positivism  rules  absolute  in  science.     Changes 


VALEDICTORY  39 

in  the  system  to  be  taught  necessarily  revolutionize  the 

system  of  teaching.  Imaginary  diagrams  and  symbols 
can  no  longer  serve  to  illustrate  mere  fanciful  hypothesi  i. 

In  this  new  era,  each  studenl  will  have  the  testimony 
of  his  own  senses;  the  contents  of  the  Professor's  note- 
book is  of  minor  interest;  and  the  fact  is  recognized  that 
it  is  not  right  to  send  the  young  student  into  practice  to 
whom  the  sick-bed  is  known  only  by  report,  and  with 
naught  but  dogmas  to  govern  him  in  the  future  exercise 
of  the  most  sacred  professional  duties.  The  wise  teacher 
would  show  from  the  bedside  the  varied  forms  of  dis- 
ease, and  how,  from  day  to  day,  health  is  won  back 
under  the  watchful  care  of  the  skilful  physician. 

To  meet  the  wants  of  students  it  was  long  sought  to 
utilize  the  means  afforded  by  the  splendid  public  hospi- 
tals of  the  city. 

Four  years  ago  the  creation  of  a  college  equal  to  the 
progressive  demands  of  science  was  a  matter  of  experi- 
ment. Bellevue  Hospital  was  selected  as  the  site,  and  a 
system  was  projected  for  the  more  perfect  employment 
of  its  clinical  opportunities  in  the  cause  of  medical  edu- 
cation. To-night  we  bear  our  heartiest  testimony  to  the 
success  of  the  system  adopted.  Is  it  partiality  if  we  claim 
that  the  Institution  which  has  fitted  us  for  our  future 
duties,  most  nearly  answers  the  students'  necessities  ? 

We  gratefully  acknowledge  the  value  of  our  privilege 
and  the  extent  of  our  indebtedness. 

At  such  a  time  as  this,  personal  preferences  or  predi- 
lections have  no  place.  Our  thanks  are  offered  to  the 
entire  body  of  the  Faculty.  Thanks  to  them  as  pioneers 
in  a  great  movement  in  behalf  of  practical  medicine. 
Thanks  to  them  for  the  untiring  zeal  with  which  they  have 
labored  to  anticipate  our  wants.     Thanks  for  the  cour- 


4o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

tesy  with  which  they  have  encouraged  us  to  intercourse. 
Thanks  for  the  example  they  have  set  us  at  the  bedside, 
teaching  us  the  sacredness  of  suffering.  And  we  part 
with  them,  I  will  not  say  with  regret,  the  thought  of  self- 
dependence  is  too  sweet,  the  feeling  of  self-reliance  too 
strong  for  that,  but  we  leave  them  carrying  with  us 
precious  memories  of  their  kindness  to  us  in  the  days  of 
our  apprenticeship,  and  our  heartiest  wishes  for  the  ever 
increasing  prosperity  of  the  Institution  with  which  they 
are  connected.  Often  in  future  practice,  the  familiar 
lessons  they  have  taught  us,  recurring  to  our  minds,  will 
recall  the  familiar  forms  and  faces,  always  awakening 
afresh  a  feeling  of  thankfulness  toward  those  to  whom  we 
owe  so  much. 

To-morrow  we  go  forth,  each  one  his  own  way,  eager  to 
begin  his  professional  life.  Some  to  the  Hospital,  some  to 
country  homes.  Many,  and  proudest  of  all,  to  serve  under 
the  National  flag.  But  before  we  part,  let  us  for  a 
moment  pause.  Only  a  few  weeks  ago,  ay,  and  even  a 
few  days  only,  others  there  were  of  our  number  not  less 
eager  than  we,  whose  hopes  were  as  bright,  whose  aspira- 
tions were  pure  and  noble,  and  yet  they  have  not  answered 
to  their  names  to-night  For  duty  with  them  is  done.  For 
a  moment  let  us  linger  upon  their  memories.  When  the 
term  commenced  in  the  pleasant  autumn  months,  all  of  us 
can  call  to  mind  in  our  attendance  at  the  Hospital,  the  quiet 
figure  of  Dr.  Rowe.  We  remember,  notwithstanding  his 
unobtrusive  ways,  feeling  the  sense  of  his  efficiency. 
Kindly  he  was  to  all,  but  not  demonstrative.  Rather  one 
of  those  to  make  great  sacrifices  for  others,  than  great  pre- 
tentions of  affections.  The  stream  was  deep,  not  a  rip- 
pling shallow.  With  earnest  ways  and  thoughts,  with  lofty 
ideals,  and  an  overruling  sense  of  duty,  he  had  those  quali- 


VALKDICTOKY  41 

ties  in  a  rare  degree  which  most  lend  beauty  to  out  profes- 
sion.    I  mean  the  ministering  qualities,  added  to  k<  enni 

of  intellect.  Hardly  conscious  of  his  own  phy,i<  al  needs, 
he  could  take  into  exact  account  the  sufferings  of  others. 
In  his  readiness  to  help  another  he  hardly  knew  the  mean- 
ing of  self-sacrifice.  Thus  we  find  him  never  flinching 
at  his  post.  Sickness  pulls  down  others,  hut  he  only  labors 
the  more  strenuously  to  supply  their  place.  A  comrade- 
is  dying  of  fever,  and  the  air  of  his  chamher  is  poisonous 
with  contagion.  He  will  watch  at  that  bedside,  he  says. 
He  will  listen  to  no  remonstrances,  to  no  selfish  words  of 
caution.  He  answers  the  timid,  with,  "I  believe  in  Christ 
and  do  not  fear  to  die,"  and  he  watches  at  the  bedside 
of  Olmstead,  till  he  sees  the  parting  of  the  spirit.  Then 
in  a  little  while  he  himself  droops  and  sickens.  The  fever 
craves  another  victim,  and,  looking  in  on  his  sick-chamber, 
we  find  that  he  who  only  a  few  days  before  could  not  do 
or  risk  enough  to  serve  another,  is  shocked  at  the  very 
thought  of  others  endangering  their  lives  for  him.  His 
family  would  take  him  home,  and  nurse  him  tenderly. 
He  will  not  go  though,  thinking  only  of  their  safety. 
Friends  would  watch  at  his  bedside.  He  will  not  have 
them.  Life  is  bright  and  beautiful  and  they  must  cherish 
it.  In  a  few  short  days  his  young  life,  so  full  of  devotion, 
begins  to  flicker,  and  then  goes  out.  For  so  rare  a  spirit 
death  has  no  pang. 

Again  only  a  few  days  ago,  two  more  of  our  number 
left  seats  vacant  in  the  college  lecture-room,  whose  forms 
and  faces  had  grown  familiar  to  us  during  the  term. 
Two  whom  we  knew  as  always  diligent,  alwavs  attentive, 
listening  like  true  earnest  disciples,  eager  for  instruction, 
conscious  of  their  future  work.  Harris  and  Hickok! 
Two    more    victims    of   contagion.     Harris    had    alreadv 


42 


WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 


passed  his  examination,  and  was  just  admitted  a  member 
of  the  profession.  How  he  had  labored  fully  to  qualify 
himself  for  usefulness,  few  can  know.  Conscientious  in  all 
things,  he  was  most  conscientious  in  this.  He  had  already 
chosen  the  Army  for  the  exercise  of  his  vocation,  and 
was  looking  forward  shortly  to  be  assigned  to  duty.  Each 
day  he  began  and  ended  with  prayer.  Death  came  sud- 
denly but  did  not  find  him  unprepared.  Hickok  was 
called  away  as  a  bright  future  was  opening  before  him. 
Those  who  knew  him  best  speak  of  him  with  enthusiasm. 
Letters  from  friends  at  home  pay  touching  tributes  to  his 
excellence  of  character.  His  preceptor  grows  warm  in 
praising  him,  and,  already  as  a  student,  chooses  him  as 
his  successor.  Classmates  who  were  his  intimates,  say: 
"Speak  your  best  of  his  memory,  for  he  was  worthy." 
Thus  in  our  gladness  of  heart  to-night  it  is  good  to  call 
the  dead  to  mind. 

On  the  eve  of  battle  we  see  friends  clasping  hands  and 
bidding  God-speed  to  one  another.  When  the  battle  is 
over  we  find  companions  seeking  companions,  the 
living  gazing  on  the  parted  lips  of  the  dead,  oozing 
wounds  pleading  dumbly  to  our  sympathies,  and  then  we 
recognize  the  hero,  in  spite  of  all  disfigurement.  As 
we  gaze  on  the  mutilated  form,  our  hearts  beat  quicker 
and  quicker,  our  spirits  kindle,  and  we  pay  the  tribute 
of  spontaneous  applause  to  him  who  surrenders  life  and 
interest  to  sustain  the  cause  of  his  country,  and  we  do 
well  thus  to  honor  him.  But  are  we  to  keep  silent  when 
the  scene  changes,  and,  without  glitter  of  arms  or  brilliant 
pageant,  faithful  souls  are  found  ready  to  pass  through 
the  midst  of  death,  thinking  not  of  themselves,  earnest 
only  for  the  welfare  of  others  ?  Have  we  no  applause 
in  honor  of  these  —  the  heroes  of  our  profession  ?    I  say 


VALhDICTOKY 


43 


let  the  noble  examples  of  Ilickok,  Harris,  and  Rowe, 
keep  alive  in  our  hearts  the  true  heroic  spirit  of  self- 
sacrifice,  which  shed  beauty  upon  their  souls  as  their 
eyelids  were  closing  in  death.  Oh!  my  brothers,  I  say 
let  us  go  forth  to-night  clasping  hands,  and  bidding 
God-speed  to  one  another.  Who  are  soon  to  fall  in  the 
battle  of  life,  we  know  not,  but  among  the  fallen,  we  will 
recognize  our  heroes  and  rejoice  to  do  them  honor.  I 
have  said  that  to-day  is  better  than  yesterday.  I  say 
now  that  to-morrow  will  be  better  than  to-day.  And  we 
are  for  a  little  while  to  be  the  guardians  of  the  future,  a 
sacred  trust  which  we  are  to  assume,  forgetting  not  that 
our  work  is  one  that  will  not  admit  of  play,  for  which 
we  must  fit  ourselves  by  the  light  of  an  enthusiasm  kindled 
in  a  desire  to  do  good,  and  in  doing  good  to  others  find 
our  true  reward.  And  thus  may  we  hope  to  realize  the 
words  of  the  Roman  orator:  "Men  in  no  wise  so  nearly 
resemble  the  Gods,  as  when  engaged  in  giving  health 
to  their  fellowmen." 

In  an  address  entitled  "The  Illustrious  Boerhaave,"  *  delivered 
before  the  graduating  class  of  the  Medical  Department  of  Yale  Univer- 
sity, June  26,  1894,  attendant  upon  his  receiving  the  degree  of  LL.D., 
Dr.  Lusk  wrote  the  following: 

"Of  the  serious  questions  which  need  to  be  considered  at  the  outset 
of  a  professional  career,  there  is  none  more  vital  than  that  of  personal 
conduct.  This  is  recognized  by  the  provision  for  the  medical  man  of  a 
code  of  ethics,  which  shows  him  how  the  portion  of  the  ten  command- 
ments which  teaches  one's  duty  toward  one's  neighbor,  is  applicable 
to  his  dealings  with  the  public  and  with  other  medical  men.  It  is  use- 
ful to  the  class  which  need  to  be  reminded  that  for  uprightness  a  man 
should  do  no  murder,  should  not  steal,  should  not  bear  false  witness, 
should  not  covet.  But  the  sweetness  and  light  which  should  govern  our 
relations  to  others  are  not  the  product  of  written  law.  The  real  train- 
ing comes  from  action  with  attendant  victories  and  defeats.  There  is, 
however,  a  special  inspiration  to  higher  effort  which  is  derived  from 
the  study  of  the  lives  of  distinguished  men." 

1  Popular  Science  Monthly.      May,  1895. 


WAR  LETTERS  OF  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Captain,  Assistant  Adjutant-General,  United  States   Volunteers, 

1861-1863 

Afterward  M.D.,  LL.D. 


-/ 


**%     > 


x^i  Q  <j&* 


Elizabeth    Freeman 'Adams  )  Lusk 

Mother   of    W.T.  Lusk 


WAR  LETTERS  OF  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Captain,  Assistant  Ad  jut  ant-General,  United  States   Volunteers, 
1861-1863 

June  27th,  1 86 1 . 
Dear  Cousin  Lou: 

Did  I  not  promise  to  write  you,  when  the  time  came 
to  say  good-bye?  Aye,  oh  best  of  women!  And  now 
I  am  fulfilling  my  promise  hastily,  for  in  an  hour  I  shall 
be  on  my  way  to  Washington.  You  must  feel  with  me 
in  my  happiness!  At  length  I  am  judged  worthy  to  ex- 
pose my  life  for  my  country's  sake.  I  go  to  join  the 
79th  Regiment.  Think,  Cousin  Lou,  I  am  going  to  see 
real  danger,  real  privation,  real  work  —  not  as  a  mere 
Carpet-Knight,  talking  valorously  to  girls,  but  going 
forth  in  all  humility  to  help  to  conquer  in  the  name  of 
God  and  my  Country.  Pray  for  me,  Cousin  Lou!  Not 
for  my  life  —  I  never  prayed  for  that  in  any  hour  of  peril 
—  but  pray  that  I  may  never  falter,  whether  my  duty 
shall  lead  me  to  honor  or  to  death. 

Good-bye  Cousin.  Love  to  Mr.  Grant,  Cousin  Laura, 
Cousin  Henry,  the  children,  and  all  friends. 

Lovingly, 
Willie. 

Hurrah!  Off  in  ten  minutes,  so  Au-Revoir  here  or 
hereafter. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  321. 

"For  many  years  the  Highland  Guard  was  a  crack  New  York  Citv 
Militia  Battalion,  composed  of  Scots,  or  men  of  Scottish  lineage.     They 

47 


48  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

wore  the  kilt  as  their  uniform,  and,  for  fatigue  or  undress,  a  blue  jacket 
with  red  facings,  and  trousers  of  Cameronian  tartan.  At  the  breaking 
out  of  the  rebellion,  the  battalion  was  raised  to  a  full  regiment  by  the 
addition  of  two  companies  and  filling  up  the  ranks,  and  on  May  13th, 
1861,  entered  the  United  States  service  for  three  years  as  the  79th  High- 
landers, New  York  Volunteers.  .  .  . 

"One  company  contained  so  many  bookkeepers  and  clerks,  that  it 
was  known  as  the  Clerk's  Company." 

Page  327.  In  August,  1861,  "the  Highlanders  still  wore  the  blue 
jacket  with  red  facings,  but  the  regulation  uniform  as  to  the  remainder. 
Later,  when  the  jackets  were  worn  out,  they  were  uniformed  like  other 
troops." 


Georgetown  Heights,  July  ist,  1861. 

Headquarters  79th  Regiment. 

Dear  Mother: 

At  length  I  have  an  opportunity  to  inform  you  of  my 
doings  since  we  parted. 

I  will  spring  over  details  however,  to  say  that  I  am  now 
with  Elliott  at  the  Barracks  of  the  79th  Regt.  —  that  I 
slept  last  night  upon  the  floor  —  that  I  am  not  yet  Lieu- 
tenant, though  assured  of  an  eventual  appointment  — 
so  until  I  write  that  I  am  entitled  to  wear  the  epaulets, 
please  direct  my  letters  to  the  care  of  Lieut.  S.  R.  Elliott, 
10th  Co.,  79th  Regt.,  N.  Y.  S.  M.,  Washington,  D.  C. 
Up  to  the  present  I  have  enjoyed  myself  much  and  am 
delighted  with  the  novelty  of  the  situation.  However, 
I  have  no  catalogue  of  hardships  to  complain  of,  as  I 
have  been  dining  in  the  best  of  company  at  a  very  good 
Secessionist  Hotel  which  lies  handy  to  our  quarters,  so 
please,  dear  mother,  don't  expose  yourself  to  any  priva- 
tions, for  the  purpose  of  better  sympathizing  with  me  as 
regards  camp  experiences.  .  .  .  Elliott  you  know,  and  I 
need  not  sound  his  praises.  .  .  .  By-the-way,  my  ex- 
penses here  to  Washington  were  paid  by  a  grateful  coun- 


MAP  OF  MILITARY  OPERATIONS   IN  N.  E.  VIRGINIA.  MARYLAND  AND   PENNSYLVANIA 
(From  "Medical  and  Surgical  History  of  the  War  of  the  Rebellion") 


WAR    LETTERS  49 

try,  and  in  this  wise.  Young  Quartermaster  Elliott, 
meeting  me  at  die  Steamboat  Landing,  introduced  me  to 
some  officers  of  a  M;i  ne  Regt.  on  its  way  hither,  f  .. 
introduced  as  Lieut.  Lusk  and  in  thai  capacity  was  invited 
to  occupy  the  car  appropriated  for  the  staff.  Hie  officers 
manifested  some  curiosity  regarding  the  Regt.  I  was  sup- 
posed to  represent,  so  it  was  with  no  little  difficulty  that 
I  resorted  to  such  evasions  as  would  enable  me  to  cover 
my  ignorance.  I  pronounced  the  79th  Regt.  to  be  flu- 
finest  in  the  field,  and  was  looked  upon  quite  respectfully. 

We  arc  now  delightfully  quartered  on  Georgetown 
Heights  in  the  Catholic  College,  but  are  going  into  Camp 
today.  Yesterday  a  preacher  from  the  Scottish  Kirk 
discoursed  to  the  soldiers  in  the  yard.  The  Catholic 
priests  must  have  shuddered  at  the  terrible  sacrilege, 
but  even  sectarianism  must  bend  to  meet  the  exigencies 
of  war. 

Elliott  sends  kind  regards  to  you,  and  the  sisters, 
and   Hunt.     Love  to  all. 

Very  afFec'y-* 

W.  T.  Lusk. 


Care  of  Lieut.   S.   R.   Elliott, 

10th  Co.,  79  Regiment,   Virginia. 

Glebewood,  Virginia,  July  8th,  1861. 
My  Dear  Mother: 

You  see  from  the  above  that  the  "sacred  soil"  con- 
tinues to  be  invaded.  General  Scott  is  inexorable,  so, 
notwithstanding  the  protests  of  the  States  Right  supporters, 
Regiment  after  Regiment  crosses  the  line,  and  the  sanctity 
of  the  Old  Dominion  is  violated  bv  the  desecrating  foot- 
steps of  the  ruthless  horsemen.     Yesterday  we  left  George- 


5o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

town  and  after  two  hours  march  arrived  at  our  present 
camping  ground.  A  romantic  scene  it  was  last  night, 
arriving  as  we  did  at  an  evening  hour.  But  our  advent 
was  followed  by  a  dreadful  act  of  destruction!  The  ruth- 
less invaders  charged  with  full  force  upon  a  snake-fence, 
demolished  it,  laid  the  pieces  upon  four  different  piles, 
and  set  to  them  the  incendiary  torch;  soon  our  camp 
fires  were  blazing.  The  men  fell  into  groups,  some  song- 
singing,  some  keeping  guard,  while  here  and  there  hoarse 
laughter  showed  that  the  solemnity  of  invading  the  sacred 
soil  did  not  entirely  prevent  the  outburst  of  unseasonable 
hilarity.  Then  the  stars  shone  brightly,  and  the  comet 
whisked  its  tail  for  us,  and  the  tattoo  sounded  for  sleepy 
souls  to  say  their  prayers  before  sinking  into  slumber. 
But  when  all  was  ready,  the  baggage-wagons  were  still 
far  from  us,  lagging  sadly  behind,  so  we  had  no  tents 
to  cover  us,  but  lay  in  the  long  grass  looking  upward  at 
the  silent  stars.  Those  of  us  who  had  brought  our  blankets 
were  fortunate,  those  of  us  who  had  trusted  in  an  unsol- 
dierly  way,  for  the  wagons  to  bring  them  to  us,  and  I 
was  one  of  those,  could  do  naught  else  than  lie  without 
any  barrier  between  us  and  the  bare  soil  —  "sacred  soil" 
—  stickey,  clayey  soil  it  was  too  —  of  the  "Sovereign 
State  of  Virginia."  Owing  to  its  quality  much  of  it  stuck 
to  us,  but  it  being  the  real  "sacred"  stuff  you  know, 
made  us  regard  our  soiled  garments  with  becoming  rever- 
ence. We  woke  early  this  morning,  you  can  imagine,  as 
the  sun  rises  hot  in  these  regions,  but  we  woke  in  excel- 
lent spirits.  Our  poor  little  Lieutenant  was  found  after 
the  Reveille,  still  enjoying  his  morning  dreams.  "Fence 
him  in!"  the  Captain  orders.  With  the  greatest  alacrity 
a  couple  of  men  took  some  rails,  and  while  the  youth 
still   slept,   built   a   sort  of  a  chicken-coop   around   him. 


WAR   LK'ITKRS  51 

Then  a  circle  laughing  and  employing  derisive  epithets 
was  formed  ahout  the  unfortunate.  At  these  unwonted 
sounds  our  little  Lieutenant  awoke,  looking  irresistibly 
comical,  in  a  state  of  utter  bewilderment.  As  he  rel<  ased 
himself  from  his  confinement,  he  looked  so  pitiable  that 
the  mirth  excited  was  only  the  more  increased. 

I  saw  Ned  Tyler  yesterday.  He  is  looking  well. 
Much  better  than  I  had  expected.  We  had  a  pleasant 
time  together,  though  our  interview  was  interrupted  by 
our  march  hitherward.  Major-General  Tyler,  who  is  to 
command  our  Division  I  believe,  also  looked  well  —  and 
full  of  business. 

Good-bye,  Mother.  In  these  times  let  us  put  our  trust 
in  God   and   accept  the  inevitable. 

Very   affectionately, 

Willy. 

"  The  JOth  Highlanders,"  p.  16. 

About  July  12th,  Col.  W.  T.  Sherman  was  made  commander  of  the 
brigade  of  which  the  79th  Highlanders  formed  a  part,  while  Brigadier- 
General  Daniel  Tyler  of  Connecticut,  commanded  the  division. 

[Skirmish  of  Blackburn's  Ford] 

Near  Centreville,  July  19th,  1861. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  happy  to  write  you  of  my  continued  health  and 
good  spirits.  We  had  an  adventurous  time  since  I  wrote 
you  so  hurriedly  a  few  days  ago.  Leaving  our  encamp- 
ment we  marched  on,  halting  often  to  remove  trees  and 
such  other  impediments  as  a  retreating  foe  could  place 
in  our  way.     The  first  night  we  passed  in  Vienna.     The 


52  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

next  day  we  advanced  on  toward  Fairfax  Court  House.  We 
were  drawn  up  about  two  miles  off  in  line  of  battle  upon 
rolling  ground,  and  the  batteries  placed  where  they  could 
play  upon  the  enemy.  Five  shots  from  our  guns  sufficed 
to  start  our  friends  the  foe  again,  so  we  advanced  further, 
passing  a  deserted  battery  on  the  way.  At  noon  we  were 
in  Germantown,  which  place  we  found  deserted,  and  soon 
the  soldiers  were  ransacking  the  houses  for  food,  destroy- 
ing and  burning  what  they  could  not  use  themselves.  I 
am  happy  to  say  the  boys  in  my  company  had  little  hand 
in  these  doings,  as  such  paltry  work  finds  little  countenance 
from  its  officers.  Germantown  is  but  a  poor  place  though 
and  $200  would  probably  cover  any  damage  done  to  it. 
At  night  we  bivouacked  upon  fields  where  the  enemy's 
fires  were  still  burning,  not  far  from  Centreville.  Here 
we  were  but  a  mile  or  two  from  the  Secessionists,  and  the 
firing  of  pickets  caused  frequent  alarms,  calling  us  to  our 
posts  once  in  the  middle  of  the  night.  We  were  all  awak- 
ened by  the  long  roll  of  the  drum,  which  is  the  signal  of 
an  advance.  We  heard  then  what  seemed  to  us  all  in 
our  half  sleepy  state,  the  tramp  of  cavalry  upon  us.  Our 
toilettes  were  hastily  made  you  can  imagine,  and  soon  we 
stood  in  silence  not  knowing  whence  the  attack  would 
come,  but  after  an  hour's  anticipation  all  became  still, 
so  the  "chivalry"  must  have  changed  their  minds  and 
returned  back  to  their  posts.  I  cannot  enumerate  all  the 
alarms  we  have  had,  for  there  is  only  paper  enough  to 
tell  of  our  part  in  yesterday's  fight.  About  noon,  I  should 
think,  for  I  have  no  means  of  calculating  the  time,  we  heard 
cannon  firing  not  far  off.  There  was  no  alarm  sounded, 
so  we  lay  around,  sleeping,  talking,  and  laughing  with 
the  utmost  indifference.  About  3  o'clock  we  were  called 
to   arms  and,   in   the   highest   spirits,  were   marched   off 


WAR    LETTERS  53 

at  a  "Double  Quick,"  hoping  that  the  yv'1  might  have 
some  share  in  the  conflict  now  ;it  hand.  We  found  a 
Massachusetts  Captain,  an  acquaintance  of  one  of  our 
sergeants.  "We  are  going  to  give  them  fits"  snys  the 
Captain.  It  was  nor  half  an  hour  afterwards  we  saw 
his  body  borne  back  in  one  of  our  ambulances.  When 
near  the  field  of  action  we  were  divided  off  in  line,  con- 
cealed in  the  edge  of  the  wood.  The  cannon  balls  whipped 
about  us  on  all  sides.  The  enemy,  either  by  accident,  or 
knowing  of  our  presence,  had  us  directly  in  their  range. 
One  man  in  my  platoon  was  struck  in  the  leg.  Thank 
God  our  loss  was  not  greater.  We  were  totally  unaware 
of  our  destination.  It  was  found  aftenvards  we  had 
been  stationed  out  to  cover  the  retreat  of  the  Brigade 
already  in  action.  After  a  while  the  cannon  ceased 
firing  and  we  were  marched  off  to  our  present  bivouack. 

You  must  know  the  particulars  of  yesterday's  skirmish 
by  the  papers  a  thousand  times  better  than  I  can  tell  you. 

Excuse  the  style  of  this  letter,  for  it  is  written  with  the 
paper  on  the  side  of  an  axe.  An  order  has  just  been 
issued  imposing  the  severest  penalties  upon  all  those  who 
shall  in  any  wise  trespass  on  private  property.  I  am  now 
ready  to  march  forward  with  a  lighter  heart,  for  it  was 
not  pleasant  to  be  connected  w7ith  thieves  —  call  thieving 
confiscation  or  what  you  will. 

My  best  love,  dearest  Mother,  for  all.  Keep  up  a 
light  heart  and  trust  in  the  Power  of  Him  who  ruleth  all. 

Very  affec'y., 
W.  T.  Lusk, 
Lieut,  loth  Co.  jgtb  Regt. 

(A  part  of  this  letter  was  published  in  the  Norwich 
Morning  Bulletin  of  July  23d,  1861). 


54  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

"Rebellion  Record,"  Vol.  II,  p.  55  of  Documents. 

The  following  is  taken  from  Gen.  McDowell's  general  orders  of 
July  1 8th,  1 861,  written  from  Fairfax  Court  House: 

"It  is  with  the  deepest  mortification  the  general  commanding  finds 
it  necessary  to  reiterate  his  orders  for  the  preservation  of  the  property 
of  the  inhabitants  of  the  district  occupied  by  the  troops  under  his  com- 
mand. Hardly  had  we  arrived  at  this  place,  when,  to  the  horror  of  every 
right-minded  person,  several  houses  were  broken  open,  and  others  were 
in  flames,  by  the  act  of  some  of  those  who,  it  has  been  the  boast  of  the 
loyal,  came  here  to  protect  the  oppressed,  and  free  the  country  from 
the  domination  of  a  hated  party.  .  .  .  Any  one  found  committing  the 
slightest  depredation,  killing  pigs  or  poultry,  or  trespassing  on  the  prop- 
erty of  the  inhabitants,  will  be  reported  to  headquarters,  and  the  least 
that  will  be  done  to  them  will  be  to  send  them  to  the  Alexandria  jail." 

Skirmish  of  Blackburn's  Ford 

July  18,  1861 

"The  ygth  Highlanders,"  p.  18. 

At  2  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  of  July  16th  the  march  began. 

Page  19.  "At  daylight  of  the  17th  the  march  was  resumed.  As 
Germantown  was  approached  about  noon,  an  earthwork  on  a  hill  di- 
rectly in  our  front  was  observed.  A  section  of  artillery  was  ordered  to 
the  front  and  a  few  shells  fired  into  it  without,  however,  eliciting  a  re- 
sponse; the  skirmish  line  advanced,  found  the  works  deserted,  and 
when  the  flag  of  the  leading  regiment  was  placed  on  the  parapet  the  men 
cheered   as  though  a  great  victory  had   been  obtained." 

Page  20.  "Our  advance  was  made  with  extreme  caution.  Rumors 
of  masked  batteries,  such  as  General  Schenck  had  run  into  at  Vienna, 
were  rife  among  the  men;  to  our  imagination  every  strip  of  woods  con- 
tained a  body  of  'secesh'  infantry,  and  every  hillock  a  concealed  bat- 
tery. ...  As  no  enemy  appeared  the  men  began  to  grow  careless. 
Gen.  McDowell  says:  'They  stopped  every  moment  to  pick  black- 
berries or  get  water,  they  would  not  keep  in  the  ranks,  order  as  much  as 
you  please;  when  they  came  where  water  was  fresh  they  would  pour  the 
old  water  out  of  their  canteens  and  fill  them  with  fresh  water;  they  were 
not  used  to  denying  themselves  much;  they  were  not  used  to  journeys 
on  foot.'  The  Highlanders  straggled  as  much  as  any  regiment  —  more, 
our  brigade  commander"  (W.  T.  Sherman)  "thought,  than  any  other." 

Page  21.  "On  the  night  of  the  17th  we  bivouacked  a  short  distance 
east  from  Centreville;  during  the  night  an  alarm  was  raised  by  musket 
firing  at  the  outposts  near  the  town,  but  we  were  not  called  into  line." 

Page  22.  "When  McDowell  began  his  march  he  expected  to  en- 
counter  only    Beauregard's    army    at    Manassas.  .  .  .  Beauregard,    by 


WAR    LETTERS  55 

means  of  spies  at  Washington,  was  kept  well  informed  of  the  plani  of 
General  Scott,  and  knew,  the  night  before,  that  the  army  was  to  Kan  on 
the  1 6th.  He  at  once  con  mi  mm  ated  the  nit'  lligi  ii' '  t"  Rii  hmond,  and  Hi«- 
authorities  there  advised  [ohnston  to  cooperate  with  Beauregard,  and 
also  ordered  the  force  at  Acquia  Creek  to  join  the  latter.     Beauregard 

ordered  his  troops,  who  occupied  the  roads  over  whit  Ii  the  Union  army 
advanced,  to  'retire  before  superior  numbers,1  and  fall  back  on  the 
main  body  now  securely  posted  along  the  Western  hank  of  Bull  Run, 
from  the  Stone  Bridge  on  the  north,  to  Union  Mills  on  the  South,  a  dis- 
tance of  about  six  miles.  Between,  and  including  these  two  points, 
there  were  seven  places  at  which  an  army  might  cross:  .  .  .  the  Stone 
Bridge,  Lewis'  Ford,  Hall's  Ford,  Mitchell's  Ford,  Blackburn's  Ford, 
McLean's  Ford,  and  lastly,  the  railroad  bridge  and  ford  at  Union  Mills. 
.   .   .   LongStreet's  brigade  guarded  Blackburn's  lord." 

Page  24.  General  Tyler  "decided  to  make  a  reconnoissance,  and  .  .  . 
proceeded  toward  Blackburn's  Ford." 

Page  25.  "Between  eighty  and  ninety  of  Richardson's  brigade  had 
been  killed,  wounded  and  captured  —  and  General  Tyler,  recalling  his 
instructions  'not  to  bring  on  an  engagement,'  ordered  the  troops  to 
withdraw.  The  loss  was  very  heavy  —  far  too  heavy  —  for  a  mere 
reconnoissance,  but  the  fact  was  developed  that  the  fords  of  Bull  Run 
were  so  well  guarded,  that  McDowell's  plan  would  need  revision  before 
the  main  attack  was  made." 


[First  Battle  of  Bull  Run] 

July  28th,  1861. 
Dear  Mother: 

A  week  has  passed  since  our  misfortunes  at  Bull's 
Run,  and  in  all  the  intervening  time  I've  had  only  oppor- 
tunity to  let  you  know  that  I  was  safe.  But  I  must  tell 
you  something  of  that  unlucky  day,  for  I  know  you  had 
rather  have  the  story  from  my  own  lips.  As  I  promised 
Henry  Goddard  to  write  once  in  a  while  for  the  Bulletin, 
I  will  put  my  story  in  a  form  to  suit  that  sheet,  if  you  think 
proper  to  communicate  it:  — 

We  too  have  breathed  into  our  nostrils  the  smoke  of 
battle,  we  too  have  listened  to  the  voice  of  the  cannon, 
we  too  have  seen  the  finest  of  pagents,  the  most   splen- 


56  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

did  of  dramatic  spectacles  —  the  death  struggle  between 
armed  arrays  of  men.  We,  who  only  yesterday  were 
numbered  among  the  "Sons  of  the  Muses,"  find  ourselves 
today  counted  among  the  full-fledged  "Sons  of  Mars." 
We  have  fought,  suffered,  and  survived  to  tell  our  tale. 
"To-morrow  morning  at  2  o'clock  be  ready  for  an 
advance,  provided  with  a  couple  of  day's  provisions," 
is  the  command  we  receive  on  Saturday  evening,  and  at 
the  chilly  hour  appointed,  without  the  sounding  of  the 
Reveille,  we  are  noiselessly  summoned  to  our  Arms.  We 
stand  in  silence  at  our  posts  until  the  red  glare  of  the 
rising  sun  had  followed  the  dark  hour  before  dawn. 
Then  we  marched  on,  gay  of  heart,  and  full  of  confi- 
dence. We  cross  Bull's  Run,  and  see  men  cutting  trees 
by  the  bridge.  We  ask  their  reason.  "It  is  to  cover  a 
retreat,"  they  tell  us.  "Ho!  Ho!"  How  we  laughed  at 
the  thought  of  our  retreating;!  What  innocent  woodmen 
those  were  that  could  talk  of  us  defeated !  It  was  a  bonnie 
sight  to  see  us  then,  eager  for  battle,  dreaming  of  vic- 
tory. Some  three  miles  we  marched  on,  and  then  were 
drawn  in  the  woods  in  line  of  battle.  In  line  we  advanced 
till  we  came  to  the  edge  of  the  forest,  where  we  were  told 
to  lie  down  to  avoid  the  range  of  the  enemy's  cannon. 
About  6  o'clock  a  couple  of  pieces  of  our  artillery  to  the 
left  of  us  opened  a  fire  upon  such  of  an  unseen  foe  as 
our  skirmishers  were  able  to  discover.  Long  our  pieces 
were  unanswered.  How  glorious,  we  thought,  this  firing 
on  the  foe,  and  ourselves  in  seeming  safety!  How  we 
laughed  when  afar  we  could  see  an  exploding  shell  scatter- 
ing the  enemy  in  confusion,  who  for  a  short  moment 
were  thus  forced  to  show  themselves  on  open  ground. 
The  fields  before  us  were  occupied  by  our  officers  recon- 
noitring.    Away  off  on  the  line  of  wood-covered  hills  two 


WAR    LETTERS  57 

or  three  miles  away,  we  could  see  the  glitter  of  bayonets. 
Seen  from  a  tree,  they  were  found  to  belong  to  line  troops, 
well  equipped,  and  marching  m  order  -troops  riot  to 
be  scattered  by  threats,  but  worthy  of  being  combatted. 
Upon  an  elevated  open  space  of  ground  before  us  to  the 
right,  we  could  see  more  troops  moving  -  horsemen 
riding  —  above  all  one  on  a  white  horse  who  seemed  to 
be  everywhere.  The  sun  grew  warm  and  we  became 
listless.  The  artillery  continued  to  discharge  its  Death 
messengers,  the  sharp  rattle  of  musketry  was  heard  to 
our  right,  volley  after  volley  following  in  quick  succession, 
yet  many  of  us  slept,  quietly  awaiting  our  turn  to  be  sum- 
moned to  action.  About  n  o'clock  two  horses  came 
galloping  riderless  toward  us.  While  surmising  whence 
they  came,  we  were  called  to  rise  and  march  to  battle. 
We  sprung  from  the  earth  like  the  armed  men  of  Cadmus. 
On  we  rushed  by  the  flank,  over  fields,  through  woods, 
down  into  ravines,  plunging  into  streams,  up  again  onto 
rising  meadows,  eager,  excited,  thrilled  with  hot  desire 
to  bear  our  share  in  routing  the  enemy.  We  cheered, 
and  yelled,  pressing  onward,  regardless  of  shells  now  and 
then  falling  among  us,  thinking  only  of  a  sharp  fight 
and  a  certain  victory.  At  last  we  reached  the  lines  of  the 
brave  boys  of  the  69th.  Here  the  American  banner  was 
planted,  so  we  shouted  lustily,  for- the  spot  had  not  long 
since  been  wrung  from  the  foe. 

From  many  a  point  not  long  since  covered  by  secession 
forces,  the  American  banner  now  floated.  What  wonder 
we  felt  our  hearts  swelling  with  pride,  and  saw,  hardlv 
noticing,  horse  and  rider  lying  stiff,  cold  and  bloody 
together!  What,  though  we  stepped  unthinking  over  the 
pale  body  of  many  a  brave  fellow  still  grasping  convul- 
sively his  gun,  with  the  shadows  of  Death  closing  around 


58  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

him!  We  were  following  the  foe,  I  have  said,  and  were 
dreaming  only  of  victory.  So  we  were  marched  to  the 
edge  of  a  slope  which  sheltered  us  partially  from  the  aim 
of  the  enemy's  artillery.  Here  lying  prostrate,  shell  after 
shell  flew  over  our  heads,  or  tore  up  the  ground  around. 
Now  we  could  feel  the  hot  breath  of  a  cannon  ball  fan 
our  cheeks;  now  we  could  see  one  fairly  aimed,  falling 
among  our  horses,  and  rolling  them  prostrate;  and  now 
again  one  of  these  messengers  would  come  swift  into 
the  ranks  of  one  of  our  columns,  and  without  a  thought 
or  a  groan,  a  soul  was  hurried  into  eternity. 

After  about  an  hour  in  this  trying  position,  we  were 
called  up  and  turned  into  the  road,  where  Death  began 
to  make  sad  havoc  in  our  ranks.  Surely  aimed,  the  shot 
of  the  enemy  fell  among  us.  We  could  not  see  the  foe, 
and  then  it  was  terrible  to  see  our  own  boys,  whose  faces 
we  knew,  and  whose  hands  we  had  pressed,  falling  in 
Death  agony.  We  heard,  while  marching  stealthily,  a 
great  shout,  and  looking  we  saw  a  hill  before  us,  covered 
with  the  Ellsworth  Zouaves.  A  moment  more,  and  from 
the  top  of  the  hill,  from  unseen  hands  blazed  a  terrible 
discharge  of  arms.  It  was  one  of  those  masked  batteries, 
which  have  so  often  brought  us  misfortune.  Bravely 
fought  the  Zouaves,  but  they  had  to  fall  back  from  that 
hellish  fire.  Other  Regiments  made  the  charge  but  only 
to  be  repulsed  with  ranks  thinned  and  broken.  At  length 
our  turn  came.  Up  we  rushed  —  our  brave  Colonel 
with  us. 

The  first  fire  swept  our  ranks  like  a  quick  darting  pes- 
tilence. "Rally,  boys — Rally!"  shouted  the  officers,  and 
a  brave  rally  was  made.  Our  men  stood  firmly  firing, 
answering  volley  by  volley.  Here  we  felt  the  worthless- 
ness  of  our  old  Harper's  Ferry  muskets,  when  matched 


WAR    LET!  II'  •  S'J 

against  the  rifles  of  the  enemy.  Tall  men  were  mowed 
down  about  me.  Wounded  men  begged  their  comrade 
to  press  on,  and  not  to  risk  anything  by  lingering  neai 
them.  We  were  only  some  twenty  yards  from  ;i  lottery, 
belching  forth  a  thick  heavy  hail  of  grape  and  canister, 
shell  and  fire  of  musketry.  With  unerring  accuracy  the 
enemy's  riflemen  singled  out  our  officers  and  mighty 
men.  Suddenly  we  saw  the  American  flag  waving  0 
the  battery.  "Cease  firing"  was  the  order  given,  and 
for  a  short  moment  we  believed  the  battery  was  ours. 
It  was  the  enemy  though  that  had  raised  the  flag  to  de- 
ceive us.  As  we  lowered  our  arms,  and  were  about  to 
rally  where  the  banner  floated,  we  were  met  by  a  terrible 
raking  fire,  against  which  we  could  only  stagger. 

"By  the  Lord,  but  I  believe  them  coons's  too  cunning  for 
us!''  cried  an  old  soldier  near  me.  We  halted,  fell  back, 
and  the  hillside  was  left  to  such  only  as  lingered  to  bear 
away  their  wounded  comrades. 

As  we  passed  down  we  saw  our  Colonel  lying  still,  in 
the  hands  of  Death.  He  had  fallen  bravely,  breast  to 
the  foe,  not  wishing  to  cherish  his  own  life,  while  the 
lives  of  his  men  were  imperilled.  Over  the  sad  dishearten- 
ing retreat  let  us  not  linger  —  let  it  be  covered  by  the  dark- 
ness of  the  night  which  followed.  We  took  with  us  750 
brave  men  into  the  battle,  but  our  roll  call  shows  that  199 
are  numbered  among  the  dead,  the  wounded,  and  the 
missing.  Six  captains  of  ours  are  silent  now  when  their 
names  are  called.  They  died  with  many  of  their  men, 
careless  of  Death,  willing  to  give  up  all  things,  even  life 
in  its  sweetness,  for  the  good  of  the  Republic.  "  Dulce 
et  decorum  est  pro  patria  mori." 

L.  of  the  ~qtb. 


60  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  have  received  only  three  letters  from  you,  the  rest 
probably  having  been  intercepted  by  the  enemy  while 
I  was  in  Virginia. 

Very  affec'y-> 

Will  Lusk. 

First  Battle  of  Bull  Run 

July  21,  1861 

"Rebellion  Record,"  Vol.  II,  p.  13  of  Documents. 

Colonel  W.  T.  Sherman  says  in  his  report  of  the  Battle  of  Bull  Run:  "I 
have  the  honor  to  submit  this  my  report  of  the  operations  of  my  brigade 
during  the  action  of  the  21st  inst.  The  brigade  was  composed  of  the  13th 
New  York  Volunteers,  Col.  Quimby;  69th  New  York,  Col.  Corcoran; 
79th  New  York,  Col.  Cameron;  2d  Wisconsin,  Lieut. -Col.  Peck;  and 
Company  E.,  3d  Artillery,  under  command  of  Capt.  R.  B.  Ayres,  Fifth 
Artillery.  We  left  our  camp  near  Centreville  pursuant  to  orders  at 
2:30  a.  m.,  taking  place  in  your  column  next  to  the  brigade  of  Gen. 
Schenck,  and  proceeded  as  far  as  the  halt  before  the  enemy's  position, 
near  the  stone  bridge  at  Bull  Run.  Here  the  brigade  was  deployed  in 
line  along  the  skirt  of  timber,  and  remained  quietly  in  position  till  after 
10  a.  m.  .  .  .  The  regiment"  (69th  New  York)  "rallied  again,  passed  the 
brow  of  the  hill  a  second  time,  and  was  again  repulsed  in  disorder.  By  this 
time  the  New  York  79th  had  closed  up,  and  in  like  manner  it  was  ordered 
to  cross  the  brow  of  the  hill  and  drive  the  enemy  from  cover.  .  .  .The 
fire  of  rifles  and  musketry  was  very  severe.  The  79th  headed  by  its 
Colonel  (Cameron),  charged  across  the  hill,  and  for  a  short  time  the 
contest  was  severe.  They  rallied  several  times  under  fire,  but  finally 
broke  and  gained  the  cover  of  the  hill.  .  .  .  But  about  9  o'clock  at 
night  I  received  from  General  Tyler  in  person,  the  order  to  continue  the 
retreat  to  the  Potomac.  This  retreat  was  by  night  and  disorderly  in 
the  extreme.  The  men  of  different  regiments  mingled  together.  .  .  . 
Our  loss  was  heavy,  all  around  us;  but  the  short  exposure  to  an  intense 
fire  of  small  arms,  at  close  range,  had  killed  many,  wounded  more,  and 
had  produced  disorder  in  all  the  battalions  that  had  attempted  to  destroy 
it.  .  .  .  Col.  Cameron  was  mortally  wounded  leading  the  regiment  in 
the  charge." 

In  Col.  W.  T.  Sherman's  brigade  there  were  in  killed,  205  wounded, 
293  missing;  total  609. 

"Rebellion  Record,"  Vol.  II,  p.  47  of  Documents. 

Southern  Account  of  Battle  of  Bull  Run. 

"By  Divine  favor  we  are  again  victorious.  To  God  be  the  glory. 
The  armies  of  the  North  and  South  yesterday  faced  each  other  —  the 


WAR   LETTERS  6/ 

former  not  loss  than  50,000  men"  (Error.  Really  33,000,  only  [8,000  of 
whom  were  engaged)  "the  latter  noi  exceeding  30,000  anrl  wrestled 
together  for  six  long  hours,  with  thai  desperatt  courage  which  American! 

only  can  show." 

After  a   description  of  the   hattle,  the  account   goes  on   to  say,  "It   is, 

however,  due  to  truth  to  say  that  the  result  ol  this  hout  hung  trembling 

in  the  balance.  We  had  lost  numhers  ol  our  most  distinguished  officer!. 
.  .  .  The  tide  of  hattle  was  turned  in  oui  favor  l>y  the  arrival  ol  ("Jen. 
Kirhy  Smith  from  Winchester,  with  4,000  men  of  <  ',<  n.  Johnston's 
division.  ...  1  hey  were  at  first  supposed  to  be  the  enemy,  their  arrival 
at  that  point  of  the  field  being  entirely  unexpected.  1  he  enemy  fell 
back,  and  a  panic  seized  them.  .  .  .  Thus  was  the  best-appointed 
army  that  had  ever  taken  the  field  on  this  continent  beaten,  and  com- 
pelled  to   retreat   in   hot   haste." 

The  Dark  Day 

"  Rebellion  Record"  Vol.  II,  p.  388  of  Documents. 

Part  of  a   Letter  of  Edward  Everett,  written    a  month  after   the  Battle  of 

Bull   Run. 

"There  probably  never  was  a  military  disaster,  of  which  the  impor- 
tance was  more  unduly  magnified,  than  that  of  the  21st  of  July  in 
front  of  Manassas.  After  a  severe  and  protracted  encounter  between 
the  two  armies,  which,  it  is  admitted,  was  about  to  terminate  in  a 
drawn  battle,  if  not  even  in  favor  of  the  United  States,  the  Con- 
federates were  largely  reinforced,  a  panic  arose  on  the  part  of  the 
teamsters  and  civilians  following  in  the  train  of  our  forces,  the  alarm 
gradually  spread  to  the  troops,  a  retreat  commenced,  and  ended  in  a 
general  rout.  The  losses  of  the  enemy  in  the  meantime  were  equal  to 
our  own;  he  was  unable  to  pursue  our  flying  regiments,  and  they  reoccu- 
pied,  unmolested,  the  positions  from  which  (from  political  reasons,  and 
against  the  judgment  of  the  Commander-in-Chief)  the  premature  advance 
was  made.  .  .  .  There  is  reason  to  think  that,  though  the  United  States 
forces  engaged  on  the  21st  of  July  under  almost  every  conceivable  dis- 
advantage —  (raw  troops  to  a  great  extent,  whose  term  of  service  was 
expiring,  coming  under  fire  for  the  first  time,  after  a  w7eary  march  be- 
neath a  blazing  sun,  contending  on  strange  ground  with  fresh  opponents 
sheltered  by  field-works  that  had  been  in  course  of  construction  for 
weeks)  —  nothing  happened  beyond  the  average  ill-luck  of  unsuccess- 
ful battles.   .   .   . 

"But  it  will  be  said,  General  McDowell's  army  was  not  only  worsted, 
it  fled  in  wild  disorder  from  the  field.  I  apprehend  most  defeated 
armies  do  that.  The  Roman  veterans  of  the  army  of  Pompeius  did  it  at 
the  battle  of  Pharsalia.  ...  A  greater  than  Pompeius  was  vanquished 
at  Waterloo;   but  the  French  writers  all  but  unanimously  claim  that  they 


62  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

had  the  advantage  till  the  arrival  of  the  Prussian  reinforcement  at  the 
close  of  the  day.  Then,  says  the  English  historian  of  the  battle,  'The 
whole  French  Army  became  one  mass  ot  inextricable  confusion.'" 

The  following  newspaper  clipping  was  evidently  written  after  the 
Battle  of  Bull  Run: 

"A  large  proportion  of  the  patients  at  both  the  Georgetown  hos- 
pitals are  from  the  Seventy-ninth  (Highland)  Regiment  and  the  Wis- 
consin Second,  and  I  am  convinced  that  in  the  various  reports  of 
the  battles,  these  regiments  have  not  been  given  the  credit  they  richly 
deserve.  Headed  by  the  fearless  Cameron,  the  former  was  ever  in  the 
hottest  of  the  fight.  Charged  and  recharged  by  the  infuriate  enemy, 
the  target  of  their  most  desperate  and  concentrate  fire,  chased,  divided, 
scourged  and  trampled  by  the  Black  Horse  cavalry,  they  stood  all, 
worthy  the  historic  blood  coursing  in  their  veins,  and  won  for  Scotia 
fresh  and  strong  claims  upon  American  gratitude." 

(E.  F.  Lusk  to  Mrs.  Henry  G.  Thompson) 

Norwich,  July  28th,  1861. 
Dear  Cousin  Louisa: 

I  will  not  commence  with  prefatory  remarks  but  hasten 
to  reply  to  your  questions  about  my  boy.  Mr.  Abbott 
returned  from  Washington  to-day.  He  found  Will  well, 
and  well  cared  for  at  the  house  of  Lt.-Col.  Elliott,  whose 
family  are  bestowing  upon  him  every  imaginable  kindness. 
Oh!  dear  Louisa,  God's  promise  has  not  failed,  and  the 
widow's  son  is  not  only  safe,  but  he  has  added  joy  to  his 
mother's  heart  by  his  noble  conduct.  Col.  Elliott  told 
Mr.  Abbott  he  should  be  promoted,  that  his  courage  and 
prudence  were  rare,  and  eminently  qualified  him  to  be  an 
officer.  Mr.  A.  wept  as  he  spoke  of  his  appearance  on  the 
battlefield,  his  courage  and  resolution  never  failing 
though  surrounded  by  his  dead  and  dying  comrades. 
The  Colonel  said,  "that  boy  is  not  known,  but  he  must 
be  now."  I  do  not  hesitate  to  write  you  this,  dear  friend. 
God  knows  I  rejoice  tremblingly,  but  I  share  him  now 
with  the  country  to  whom  he  is  devoting  all  the  energies 


WAR   LET!  I  RS  63 

of  liJs  earnest  spirit.  If  you  or  any  fnend  feel  like  writ- 
ing ln'm,  direct  to  Washington,  Lieut.  William   J.  Lusk, 

IOth  Co.  79th  Highland  Regiment;  he  lias  not  written 
even  me,  for  he  has  no  time,  hut  as  soon  as  he  can  be 
spared  he  hopes  to  come  to  me  for  a  day  or  two.  I  notice 
by  the  papers  he  was  in  the  hottest  of  the  fight  and  that 
the  regiment  was  covered  "with  immortal  honor."  Tell 
Laura,  as  he  is  connected  with  the  Highlanders,  I  would 
like  to  know  something  of  his  Scotch  ancestry  we  have  so 
often  laughed  about.  Pray  for  him  my  friend.  God 
never  seemed  so  near  as  in  this  dark  hour.  I  know  that 
He  pities  his  sorrowing  children,  remembering  "we  are 
but  dust."  With  much  love  to  all  our  dear  Enfield 
friends, 

I  remain 

Affectionately  yours, 

E.  F.  Lusk. 


Meridian  Hill,  Washington, 

Aug.  1st,  1 86 1. 
Dear  Cousin  Lou: 

I  am  seated  in  my  tent,  the  rain  is  pouring  in  torrents, 
and  I  am  at  leisure  to  think  of  friends  at  home.  You 
see  whom  I  was  first  remembering,,  not  having  forgotten 
the  kind  letter  which  Mr.  Houston  brought  me  from 
Thompsonville,  when  I  was  somewhere  over  in  Virginia. 
I  thank  you  so  much  for  all  the  dear,  kind  expressions  of 
love  your  letter  contained. 

Oh!  Ah!  Here  come  about  twenty-five  men  or  more 
with  complaints,  and  as  the  Captain  is  awav,  I  must 
straighten  up,  and  play  the  part  of  Magistrate.  Oh 
Olympian     Jove!    Oh    Daniel   risen    to    judgment!     The 


64  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

malcontents  have  been  severally  coaxed,  wheedled,  threat- 
ened, and  sent  about  their  business,  and  the  Centurion  is 
once  again  at  leisure.  A  pleasant  thing  is  this  exercise 
of  power,  especially  when  commands  can  be  given  in 
the  quietest  manner  possible,  and  yet  to  feel  that  from 
your  judgment  there  can  be  no  appeal.  In  fact,  dear 
Cousin  Lou,  imagine  me  when  the  Captain  is  away,  per- 
forming the  paternal  function  towards  some  hundred 
grown  up  children.  Ah  me!  I  am  growing  venerable  and 
cares  are  weighing  heavily  upon  me. 

But  I  must  not  forget  that  I  am  a  veteran  soldier  now. 
Poor  Horace!  How  I  shall  assume  superior  airs,  tell 
him, when  I  return  home!  In  fact  when, one  of  these  days, 
I  get  a  furlough  and  am  surrounded  by  friends,  how  I 
shall  exercise  my  soldier's  privilege  of  drawing  the  long 
bow!  In  my  first  battle,  of  course,  I  performed  the 
most  remarkable  deeds  of  daring.  I  shall  not  pretend  to 
tell  you  how  many  Secessionists  I  killed!  Between  our- 
selves though,  in  all  privacy,  I  will  confess  that  the  fearful 
weapon  with  which  I  struck  such  terror  in  the  hearts  of 
the  enemy,  was  a  toy  wooden  sword,  captured  by  one 
of  our  men  from  a  secession  boy-baby.  In  the  great 
battle  of  Manassas,  holding  the  occasion  to  be  one  of 
greater  moment,  I  made  the  charge  armed  with  a  ram- 
rod, which  I  picked  up  on  the  way  thither!  I  acknowl- 
edge I  found  the  work  hotter  than  I  anticipated  in  the 
latter  engagement,  and  mean  in  future  to  go  armed  in 
regulation  style.  The  truth  of  the  matter  was,  that  being 
ordered  suddenly  to  march  from  our  pleasant  encamp- 
ment in  Georgetown,  I  was  found  unprepared,  and  must 
either  stay  behind,  or  trust  to  my  pistol  in  case  of  emer- 
gency. I  preferred  the  latter,  and  the  kind  Providence 
has  brought  me  safely  through  the  fiery  ordeal,  through 


WAR  LETTERS  65 

which  we  all  had  to  pass.  What  think  you,  dear  Cousin 
Lou  of  our  miserable  defeat?  It  seems  hard,  as  we  lost 
many  good  men  out  of  our  Regiment  on  that  Moody  day. 
I  saw  many  things  never  to  be  forgotten.  No  matter 
for  sickening  details  though.  The  ground  lost  must  he 
recovered  at  any  cost.  We  have  lost  out  of  the  800  who 
went  into  the  engagement  about  150  in  killed  and  wounded, 
besides  some  fifty  more  numbered  among  the  missing. 
Hardship  and  exposure  have  caused  much  sickness  in 
the  camp.  Most  of  the  liquor-dealing  Captains  and 
Lieutenants  who  commanded  before  the  battle,  have  re- 
signed, many  others  are  dead  or  in  the  hands  of  the  enemy 
—  so  I  can  give  no  very  cheerful  picture  of  our  camp  at 
present.  We  are  to  be  soon  thoroughly  reorganized,  to 
be  cared  for  tenderly  by  the  President  and  Secretary  of 
War,  to  be  recruited  to  the  army  standard,  and  when 
once  more  discipline  shall  be  enforced,  we  trust  that 
the  79th  will  be  able  to  charge  as  gallantly  as  at  Manassas, 
but  that  the  charge  may  result  not  in  mere  loss  of  life,  but 
in  glorious  victory. 

You  would  be  much  entertained,  could  you  only  see 
behind  the  scenes,  at  the  daring  feats  of  individuals,  which 
are  passing  the  rounds  of  the  papers.  A  specimen  is 
afforded  by  a  story  I  read  in  the  Herald  of  a  certain  Cap- 
tain   who  is  reported  to  have  repeatedly  rallied  the 

men  of  the    79th   and    led  them  back  to    battle.      Now 

the  fact   is   that   Captain never  was   within   three 

days  journey  of  the  battle,  and  moreover,  at  least  ten  days 
before  the  engagement  the  Colonel  threatened  him  with 
arrest  should  he  dare  to  show  himself  in  the  Regiment. 
Captain wrote  the  article  himself,  and  had  it  pub- 
lished. This  is  only  an  isolated  example  of  the  manner 
by  which  this  war   is    made   to    subserve   the   dirtiest  of 


66  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

politicians.  I  have  had  no  letter  from  Horace,  and  but 
few  from  home  since  I  left  New- York.  I  suppose  some 
of  the  letters  addressed  to  me,  have  been  captured  by  the 
Secessionists,  and  have  been  perused  with  the  same  gusto 
that  we  felt  when  a  package  of  the  enemy's  letters  fell 
into  our  hands.  Of  course  we  had  to  read  them  to  glean 
as  far  as  possible  the  state  of  political  feeling  in  the  South, 
and  I  blush  to  say  we  read  with  special  interest  the  tender 
epistles  which  fair  South  Carolina  maidens  penned  for 
the  eye  alone  of  South  Carolina  heroes.  Think  of  such 
sacred  pages  being  polluted  by  the  vulgar  gaze  of  a  parcel 
of  peddling  Yankees. 

We  learned  some  of  the  peculiarities  of  the  Aborigines 
down  South  from  these  epistles.  We  learned  that  the 
ladies  are  so  modest  that  they  write  of  themselves  with 
a  little    i  —  that    all    Southern    babies    send    their   papas 

"Howdy"  —  that  a  certain  perfidious 

is  "cortin  the  gall"  of  one  of  the  brave  palmetto  soldiers 
who  is  congratulated  by  his  sister  upon  having  slain 
3000  Yankees  —  that  the  ladies  in  the  South  are  thirsting 
for  the  blood  of  the  Northern  mercenaries,  and,  above  all, 
penmanship,  spelling  and  composition  showed  that  the 
greatest  need  of  the  South,  is  an  army  of  Northern  School- 
masters. Well,  Cousin  Lou,  I  must  not  write  for  ever, 
so  good-bye.     Love  to  all  in  Enfield    and  in  Pelham. 

Very  affectionately, 

Wm.  T.  Lusk, 
Lieut.  10th  Co.  jgtb  Regiment,  Washington. 


WAR   LETTERS  (,: 

Aug.  5th,  1861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

Living  now  quietly  without  excitement,  the  eveni 
two  weeks  ago  have  become  like  a  dream.     Out  camp 
is  beautifully  situated  on   Meridian  I  fill  in  the  suburbs 
of  Washington,  and  overlooks  an  enchanting  prospect  of 

the  city,  and  the  green  banks  of  the  Potomac.  The 
air  is  fresh  and  healthy,  and  sickness  which  has  been 
very  prevalent  among  the  men,  is  now  breaking  up,  and 
a  better  appearance  is  beginning  to  be  seen  in  the  camp. 
Still  the  shock  we  received  in  the  last  battle  was  very 
great.  I  have  written  how  great  our  loss  was,  and  that 
the  same  was  most  heavy  among  our  officers.  Fifteen 
of  them,  six  Captains  and  nine  Lieutenants,  nearly  half  of 
the  entire  number,  were  lost  to  us  that  day.  On  our 
return  to  Fort  Corcoran  after  the  battle,  having  walked 
over  thirty  miles  from  the  battlefield,  having  been  thirty- 
six  hours  without  food  or  sleep,  consequently  exhausted 
from  fatigue,  hunger,  and  want  of  rest,  we  hoped  to  be 
allowed  to  throw  ourselves  anywhere,  and  to  get  a  mouth- 
ful of  anything  to  eat.  The  rain  poured  in  torrents  and 
we  were  soaked  to  our  skins.  There  was  not  a  cracker 
to  be  had  at  the  quarters;  there  was  not  a  tent  to  shelter 
us.  We  crawled  into  an  old  barn.  Sherman,  the  com- 
mander of  our  brigade,  ordered  us  to  come  out  and 
stand  in  the  rain.  Many  of  the  men  were  desperate. 
They  became  clamorous  for  food.  Sherman  sneered  at 
them  for  such  unsoldierly  conduct.  They  begged  for  some 
place  to  rest.  He  bade  them  sleep  on  the  ground.  They 
had  no  blankets,  many  not  even  a  jacket,  and  all  were 
shivering  in  the  wet.  The  soil  was  oozy  with  water,  and 
deep  puddles  lay  everywhere.     The  men   became   quer- 


68  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

ulous.  Sherman  grew  angry,  called  them  a  pack  of  New- 
York  loafers  and  thieves. 

Oh  ye  Patriots,  was  not  this  a  spectacle!  Afterward 
Sherman  visited  the  camp  with  President  Lincoln.  The 
men  had  grown  sullen.  As  he  drove  by,  they  besieged 
his  carriage,  hooted  him,  and  reminded  him  who  it  was 
that  first  basely  deserted  us  on  the  battlefield,  turning  his 
horse's  head  from  us,  and  leaving  us  to  our  fate. 

President  Lincoln  ordered  his  coachman  to  drive  away. 

Affairs  were  now  interesting.  Lieut.-Col.  Elliott  visited 
the  Secretary  of  War  —  denounced  the  conduct  of  Sher- 
man in  the  plainest  language.  Everything  served  to 
corroborate  his  testimony.  The  Secretary  of  War  then 
removed  us  to  our  present  encampment,  and  placed  us 
in  the  Brigade  of  Gen'l  Mansfield.  We  are  now  doing 
well,  but  the  past  is  not  forgotten.  The  men  feel  that 
they  were  wronged,  and  are  discontented;  officers  feel 
that  they  were  insulted,  and  have  resigned.  Those  of 
us  who  remain  by  the  Regiment  are  a  mere  handful. 
Under  these  circumstances,  and  because  the  men  fought 
well  at  Manassas,  the  Government  has  concluded  to  send 
us  to  some  one  of  the  forts  near  New- York  for  a  short 
time,  there  to  recruit,  and  restore  the  organization  of 
the  Regiment.  As  it  is  now,  whole  companies  are  with- 
out officers.  It  is  thought  in  a  short  time  we  may  again 
be  upon  a  war  footing,  and  ready  to  win  fresh  laurels, 
only  laurels  that  are  worn  after  victory,  not  the  mournful 
ones  that  even  the  defeated  may  wear  after  a  manful 
struggle. 

I  am  very  much  entertained  and  amused  to  hear  of 
your  accounts  of  my  heroic  deeds.  You  don't  know 
the  half  of  them.  I  won't  pretend  to  say  how  many  I 
killed    in   the   fight.     About   five   hundred,    I    suppose  — 


WAR   LETTERS  <.<> 

most  of  them  Colonels,  only  a  few  ranking  less  than  a 
Major.  You  say  you  read  in  the  Tribune  tlu  statement 
of  the  bearing  away  the  body  of  our  good  Colonel,  made 
by  Lieut.  S.  R.  Elliott,  a  reliable  witness.  Yes,  my 
dear  Mother,  I  was  one  of  the  little  band  mentioned  in 
the  paragraph,  bur  regarding  that  dreadful  bomb-shell 
•which,  exploding,  killed  five  of  us,   I  can  only  say  that  I 

didn't  sec  it.    The  story  originated  with  — , 

the  correspondent  of  the  Tribune,  who  called  one  night 
in  a  beastly  state  of  intoxication,  upon  Colonel  Elliott  to 
inquire  the  particulars  of  the  fight.  We  were  all  some- 
what astonished  at  the  particulars  as  they  appeared  the 
next  day  in  the  papers.     You  may  have  read  too,  how  a 

certain  Captain  repeatedly  rallied  us,  and  led  us 

back  to  the  fight.     Captain  was  not  near  the  field 

of  battle  the  whole  day,  but  being  a  small  politician,  he 
stayed  at  home  and  composed  an  account  of  his  gallantry, 
in  which  perhaps  there  was  much  wisdom.  You  see, 
Mother,  what  reports  are  worth,  and  I  positively  deny 
all  stories  regarding  myself,  with  the  exception,  of  course, 
of  such  authentic  anecdotes  as  my  having  killed  several 
hundred  Colonels,  Lieut.-Colonels  and  Majors  with  a 
ram-rod,  which  served  me  as  the  jaw-bone  did  Sampson 
when  he  went  out  against  the  Philistines. 

Your  letters  reach  me  now  with  the  utmost  regularity. 
Thank  Lilly  for  her  kind  letter  too.  I  have  been  looking 
for  Hunt  all  day  to-day.  I  suppose  I  shall  see  you  when 
we  are  transferred,  perhaps  to  Fort  Schuvler. 

I  was  sorry  not  to  see  Mrs.  Tyler  when  here. 

Very  Affec'y., 

William  T.  Lusk, 
Lieutenant  Co.  K.  ygtb  Regiment. 


70  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

Meridian  Hill,  Washington. 

Aug.  i  ith,  1 86 1. 
My  dear.  Mother: 

I  have  been  overjoyed  by  a  visit  from  Hunt,  who  has 
now  probably  returned  home  and  reports  me  hearty  and 
well.  I  have  been  fortunate  in  meeting  several  friends 
most  unexpectedly  during  the  last  few  days.  MissWoolsey 
was  at  our  encampment  on  some  errand  of  mercy  yester- 
day evening.  I  saw  her  for  a  few  moments,  and  promised 
to  call  upon  her  and  Mrs.  Howland  soon,  which  I  shall 
do  if  allowed  to  leave  the  camp.  The  laws  are  very 
strict  though  now,  and  I  doubt  whether  I  shall  be  able 
to  leave  the  camp  for  some  time  to  come.  We  are  now 
going  through  a  stage  dreaded  by  all  officers  in  the  army, 
viz:  that  immediately  following  upon  pay-day.  Not- 
withstanding the  utmost  precautions  the  men  contrive 
to  obtain  liquor,  and  when  intoxicated  are  well-nigh 
uncontrollable,  so  that  the  utmost  vigilance  is  needful. 
As  the  number  of  our  officers  is  but  small  we  are  kept 
almost  constantly  active.  When  the  money  is  once  spent  we 
will  then  breathe  more  freely.  To-morrow  I  am  to  be  the 
officer  commanding  the  Guard,  so  I  am  scribbling  a  few 
lines  rapidly  to-night,  as  I  shall  be  too  busy  to  attend  to 
such  things  to-morrow,  and  the  following  day  too  ex- 
hausted to  do  much  after  twenty-four  hour's  exertion. 
You  see  all  the  labors  of  an  officer  generally  are  com- 
pressed into  short  seasons  of  unexampled  labor,  and  long 
periods  of  repose.  We  have  now  a  new  Colonel  — 
Governor  Stevens  of  Washington  Territory.  He  seems 
to  be  a  first  class  man.  His  advent  among  us  was  inaugu- 
rated by  an  order  for  us  young  officers  to  leave  the  pleas- 
ant rooms   we   occupied   when    Hunt   was   with  us,   and 


iRIGADIER- Ge  N  ERAL    DaNIElTyLER 


WAR    LETTERS  71 

to  return  to  our  tents.  I  his  was  -'is  if  should  be;  and 
other  strict  measures  toward  officers  and  men  show  rhat 
he  is  the  right  sort  of  a  commander  for  a  Regiment  like 
ours,  requiring  a  strong  firm  hand  to  govern  it.  I  trust 
we  may  continue  to  be  satisfied  with  him  as  our  chief 
officer. 

I  begin  to  regard  it  as  a  little  doubtful  as  to  whether 
we  really  return  to  New  York.  Military  men  regard 
such  a  movement  as  unprecedented,  «md  as  affording  a 
dangerous  example.  We  will  see  how  it  is  to  end.  You 
ask  me  regarding  Gen'l  Tyler!  I  will  answer  with  all 
candor  that,  he  acted  with  the  utmost  bravery  on  the  day 
of  the  fight.  It  was  owing  to  his  prompt  and  energetic 
action  that  once,  after  our  Regiment  was  scattered,  when 
weary  and  exhausted,  having  also  (Elliott  assisting)  the 
additional  burden  of  our  wounded  Captain  to  bear  away, 
we  escaped  a  cavalry  charge  in  which  many  of  our  men 
were  taken  prisoners.  When  the  cavalry  came  in  sight, 
and  all  was  in  confusion,  you  could  hear  his  quick,  sharp 
voice  rallying  the  disheartened  to  make  such  a  stand  as 
alone  would  ensure  them  victory.  The  men  rallied, 
poured  a  volley  of  musketry  into  the  foe  galloping  upon 
us,  at  the  same  time  giving  them  two  fatal  shots  from  a 
couple  of  artillery  pieces  which  luckily  were  in  our  pos- 
session—  at  which  time  I  must  mention  the  activity 
displayed  by  Ned  Harland  too.  The  fire  was  effective, 
the  cavalry  retreated  and  we  marched  on  unharmed. 
Such  things  should  shut  the  mouths  of  slander.  Gen'l 
Tyler  unfortunately  played  a  leading  part  in  a  fatal 
engagement,  and  consequentlv  must  bear  an  undue 
share  of  blame.  His  great  fault  seems  to  have  been  an 
overweening  confidence  in  our  strength,  and  a  great 
undervaluation  of  the  enemy.     Since  the   fight   I   regret 


72  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

to  say  a  spirit  of  bitterness  pervades  his  conversation  as 
well  as  his  official  report  of  the  battle. 

I  have  just  seen  Lieut. -Col.  Elliott,  and  feel  more 
reason  to  hope  we  may  return,  as  was  before  promised. 
Give  the  best  of  love  to  all, 

And  believe  me, 

Very  Affec'y-> 
William  T.  Lusk. 


[The    Mutiny   in   the    79TH    Regiment,    New-York 
Volunteers] 

Maryland, 
Camp  Causten,  Aug.  17th,  1861. 
My  dear  Mother: 

This  has  been  a  busy  and  painful  week  for  the  officers 
of  the  Highland  Regiment.  You  have  seen  various  ac- 
counts of  our  troubles  in  the  papers,  but  they  contain 
nothing  authentic,  although  perhaps  about  as  much  as 
an  outsider  can  understand.  The  mutiny  of  Thursday 
is  only  the  legacy  of  a  quarrel  begun  among  the  officers 
before  the  Regiment  left  for  the  seat  of  war.  The  quarrel 
ended  after  the  battle  of  Bull  Run,  in  the  resignation  of 
several  of  the  officers  whose  ambition  was  disappointed 
as  to  governing  the  affairs  of  the  Regiment.  Not  con- 
tent with  withdrawing  their  services,  these  men  resolved 
to  undermine  the  Regiment  itself.  Their  plans  were 
well  laid.  In  an  underhand  way  they  conveyed  papers 
among  the  men  purporting  that,  as  State  Militia  they 
were  entitled  to  return  home  at  the  expiration  of  three 
months  service,  but  that  an  effort  would  be  made  to  detain 
them  for  the  war.  By  going  home,  it  was  represented 
the  men  would  receive  a  grand  ovation,  would  meet  their 


WAR   LETTERS 


7.3 


families,  and  be  enabled  to  I'll  linn  tale  of  the  Bull  Run 
battle.  Those  who  had  had  enough  of  fighting  could 
resume  their  old  employments,  while  the  gT(  ater  part  who 
were  ready  to  re-enlist  for  th<-  war,  would  be  entitled  to 

there-enlistment  bounty  of  #30.  A  Government  which 
would  give  $30  bounty  for  re-enlisted  three  month  sol- 
diers must  place  a  high  value  upon  them.  Now,"  the 
men  were  told,  "a  secret  plan  has  been  formed  to  prevent 
your  return  home  at  all.  Lieut.-Col.  Elliott  has  received 
from  Government  $10,000.00  to  sell  you  all  for  the  war, 
and  to  cheat  you  of  your  rights  and  privileges."  Some 
little  things  occurred,  which  as  far  as  the  men  were  con- 
cerned, seemed  corroborative  of  these  statements,  viz:  — 
An  order  which  had  been  issued  by  the  Secretary  of  War 
for  us  to  return  to  New-York  to  recruit,  was  recalled  as 
inexpedient  on  the  day  the  three-month  service  of  our 
men  expired.  This  was  sufficient  for  them.  They  be- 
lieved they  had  been  sold;  and  the  train  which  had  been 
carefully  laid,  exploded  upon  our  being  ordered,  not  into 
the  boat  for  home,  but  onto  the  road  into  Maryland. 
Since  the  battle,  owing  to  the  loss  through  resignations 
or  deaths,  of  our  Colonel,  Major  and  9  of  the  10  Captains, 
besides  that  of  many  of  the  Lieutenants,  we  were  left 
in  a  condition  peculiarly  unfavorable  to  discipline;  and 
this  much  is  to  be  said  that  the.  companies  of  Captain 
Ellis  (my  own)  and  that  of  Captain  Elliott,  which  were 
provided  with  officers,  obeyed  their  orders,  and  refused 
to  join  the  mutineers.  The  mutiny  commenced  in  the 
morning  by  the  men's  refusing  to  strike  their  tents  as 
commanded.  They  were  to  have  been  struck  at  5  a.m.  and 
the  Regiment  was  to  move  at  6  o'clock.  Col.  Stevens 
repeated  the  orders,  but  they  were  still  silently  and  sul- 
lenly   neglected.     He    then    went    among   the    men    and 


74 


WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 


used  all  his  powers  of  persuasion,  but  they  had  been  told 
that  they  had  the  law  on  their  side,  and  if  they  only  per- 
severed, they  would  be  able  to  return  home  as  a  militia 
regiment.  Col.  Stevens  next  went  to  each  company 
singly  and  read  the  articles  of  war,  appending  to  them 
such  remarks  as  would  enforce  in  the  men  the  danger  of 
their  course;  but  by  this  time,  the  camp,  left  without  sen- 
try, became  exposed  to  the  whiskey  dealers  who  made 
good  use  of  their  opportunities.  Soon  a  scene  of  the 
wildest  confusion  took  place.  The  soldiers,  throwing 
off  all  authority,  presented  the  hideous  and  disgusting 
spectacle  of  a  debauched  and  drunken  Helotry.  It  was 
a  time  trying  to  one's  nerves  —  more  trying  far  than  the 
musketry  or  cannonading  of  Bull  Run.  The  Colonel 
ordered  the  officers  to  strike  the  tents  themselves.  This 
we  did  amid  the  jeers,  the  taunts,  and  the  insults  of  an 
infuriated  mob.  One  man  brought  me  his  gun,  cocked 
it,  showed  me  it  was  capped,  and  reminded  me  it  was 
intended  for  one  officer  at  least  to  die,  should  our  release 
be  attempted.  Still  we  worked  quietly  on,  obeying  our 
orders.  Some  of  the  Lieutenants  were  allowed  to  take 
down  the  tents  undisturbed,  but  on  leaving  them  a  mo- 
ment, they  were  again  pitched  by  the  men.  Everywhere 
we  were  threatened,  and  it  became  equally  necessary  to 
show  neither  fear  of  the  men,  nor,  on  the  other  hand, 
to  allow  ourselves  any  act  of  violence  which  would  pre- 
cipitate bloodshed.  Luckily  for  us,  when  the  men  were 
most  maddened  by  drink,  an  old  country  quarrel  broke 
out  among  them,  viz:  —  the  feud  between  the  Orangemen 
and  the  Ribandmen,  which  we  only  know  of  through 
English  novels,  and  history.  We  were  not,  however, 
altogether  forgotten.  Names  neither  poetical,  decent,  or 
complimentary  were  freely  bestowed    upon   us.     Finally 


WAR   LETTERS  75 

afternoon  advanced,  and  nothing  w.-is  gained.  The  Col- 
onel called  on  the  men  for  the  last  time  to  render  obedi- 
ence. Soberness  and  reflect  ion  bad  begun  their  work 
upon  a  few.  These  fell  into  their  places,  and  were 
stationed  around  the  Camp  as  a  guard  over  the  others. 
Still,  though  thus  yielding,  their  sympathies  were  either 
extended  to  their  mutinous  comrades,  or  else  they  were 
too  fearful  to  render  much  assistance.  It  was  necessary 
for  the  officers  to  be  everywhere,  and  I  confess  I  was  quite 
exhausted  when  a  body  of  cavalry  and  a  line  of  infantry 
appeared,  coming  toward  us.  This  was  a  great  relief. 
The  mutineers,  all  unconscious,  were  surrounded,  and, 
when  it  was  too  late  to  resist,  obeyed  the  orders  issued, 
a  death  penalty  being  promised  to  those  who  wavered. 
You  have  seen  in  the  papers  the  punishment  awarded  to 
the  Regiment  —  the  taking  of  our  colors  and  the  disgrace 
from  which  we  are  suffering. 

Dear  Mother,  I  feel  heartsick  and  much  depressed. 
I  begin  to  repent  bitterly  of  having  cast  my  lot  with  a 
foreign  Regiment.  Our  men  have  not  the  feelings  of 
Americans,  and  cannot,  when  a  reverse  comes,  be  in- 
spired to  renewed  efforts  by  enthusiasm  for  the  cause. 
I  am  eager  for  another  battle  in  order  that  we  may  have 
an  opportunity  to  regain  our  colors,  yet  dread  to  risk  it 
now  that  our  men  are  much  demoralized.  I  wish  old 
Connecticut  had  a  place  for  me. 

Col.  Stevens,  who  is  an  able  man,  thinks  though,  in 
less  than  a  month  he  can  make  us  once  more  the  finest 
Regiment  in  the  field.  These  stories  regarding  the  Lieut. - 
Col.  are  simply  absurd.  I  have  just  received  a  letter 
from  you.  I  endorse  fully  the  bravery  of  Gen'l  Tvler. 
His  chief  fault  was  his  paying  the  Connecticut  Volunteers 
the  high  compliment  of  believing  they  could   fight  like 


76  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

veterans,    a    compliment  not   at  all   to   the   taste  of  the 
Connecticut  boys. 

Good  bye,  dear  mother. 

Love  to  sisters  and  all. 
Affec'y, 
W.  T.  Lusk. 

Note.  —  Dr.  Lusk  once  said  that  at  the  time  of  the  mutiny  among 
the  79th  Highlanders  he  had  one  of  the  narrowest  escapes  of  his  life. 
A  drunken  soldier  pointed  a  rifle  at  his  head  and  fired,  but  a  friend 
seeing  the  danger,  knocked  the  muzzle  of  the  gun  in  the  air,  just  in 
time  to  avert  catastrophy.  In  narrating  this  episode  Dr.  Lusk  remarked 
with  characteristic  modesty,  "You  know  I  never  was  very  brave,  but 
when  the  men  refused  to  strike  the  tents,  the  officers  had  to  do  it 
themselves." 

The  Mutiny  in  the  79TH  Highland  Regiment 
"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens"  Vol.  II,  p.  321. 

"At  the  battle  of  Bull  Run  the  Highlanders  were  terribly  cut  up, 
losing  198  killed,  wounded,  and  missing,  including  eleven  officers.  The 
Colonel,  James  Cameron,  brother  to  the  Secretary  of  War,  was  killed 
gallantly  leading  his  regiment,  which  was  considerably  scattered  after 
the  battle.  It  was  collected  together  in  a  few  days,  and  moved  to  a 
camp  on  Meridian  Hill.  The  officers  and  non-commissioned  officers 
now  petitioned  the  secretary  to  order  the  regiment  home  to  recruit  and 
recuperate." 

The  Secretary  of  War  endorsed  the  petition  as  follows: 
"'The  Secretary  of  War  believes  that  in  consideration  of  the  gallant 
services  of  the  79th  Regiment,  New  York  Volunteers,  and  of  their  losses 
in  battle,  they  are  entitled  to  the  special  consideration  of  their  country; 
and  he  also  orders  that  the  regiment  be  sent  to  some  one  of  the  forts  in 
the  bay  of  New  York  to  fill  up  the  regiment  by  recruits,  as  soon  as  Col. 
Stevens  returns  to  the  command. 

Simon  Cameron, 

Secretary  of  War.' 

"The  men  were  informed  of  the  Secretary's  order,  and  notified  to 
prepare  for  the  homeward  trip,  to  which  they  looked  forward  with  eager 
anticipations  and  longing.  But  the  military  authorities  remonstrated  so 
strenuously  against  the  order,  on  the  ground  of  the  bad  effect  on  other 
troops  of  allowing  one  regiment  to  go  home,  that  the  Secretary  allowed 
it  to  be  set  aside,  yet  no  notice  of  the  revocation  was  given  the  High- 
landers." 


WAR   LETTERS  77 

On  August  10th,  Col.  Stevens  arrived  at  the  camp.  On  the  13th 
he  issued  an  order  at  dress  parade  thai  the  t<  gim<  m  ihould  mow   1  amp 

on  the  morrow.    The  mutiny  of   the  loldien  followed   Oil  the  14th. 
Page  324.    "At  length  finding  ;ill  efforts  to  restore  obedieno  fro 
Col.  Stevens  felt  obliged  to  report  the  mutiny,  and  z$k  for  troopi  to 
suppress  it.    In  response-  the  '.imp  was  Burrounded  late  in  the  afternoon 
by  an  overpowering  force  of  regular  infantry,  artillery,  and  cavalry.  .  .  . 

Colonel  Stevens  then  addressed  them,  Standing  in  the  midff  of  th<   -amp: 

'I  know  you  have  been  deceived.  You  have  been  told  you  were  to 
go  to  your  homes,  when  no  such  orders  had  been  given.  Hut  you  an 
soldiers,  and  your  duty  is  to  obey.  I  am  your  Colonel,  and  your  obedi- 
ence is  due  to  me.  I  am  a  soldier  of  the  regular  army.  I  have  spent 
many  years  on  the  frontier  fighting  the  Indians.  I  have  been  surrounded 
by  the  red  devils,  fighting  for  my  scalp.  I  have  been  a  soldier  in  the 
war  with  Mexico,  and  bear  honorable  wounds  received  in  battle,  and 
have- been  in  far  greater  danger  than  that  surrounding  me  now.  All 
the  morning  I  have  begged  you  to  do  your  duty.  Now  I  shall  order 
you;  and  if  you  hesitate  to  obey  instantly,  my  next  order  will  be  to  those 
troops  to  fire  upon  you.     Soldiers  of  the  79th  Highlanders,  fall  in!' 

"His  voice  rang  out  like  a  trumpet.  The  men,  thoroughly  cowed, 
made  haste  to  fall  into  the  ranks.   .  .  . 

"The  colors  were  taken  away  by  order  of  Gen.  McClellan,  and  thirtv- 
five  men,  reported  by  the  officer  of  the  guard  as  active  in  the  disturbance, 
were  marched  off  to  prison.  .  .  .  Fourteen  of  the  so-called  ringleaders  were 
soon  afterwards  released  and  returned  to  the  regiment,  and  the  re- 
mainder were  sent  to  the  Dry  Tortugas  on  the  Florida  coast,  where  they 
were  kept  on  fatigue  duty  until  the  16th  of  the  following  February, 
when  they  were  also  released,  and  joined  the  regiment  at  Beaufort,  S.  C." 

Page  326.  "Col.  Stevens  commanded  his  regiment  with  a  firm  and 
severe  hand.  He  enforced  early  roll-calls,  hard  drilling  and  strict 
cleanliness  in  person  and  camp.  There  were  some  men  so  demoralized, 
by  homesickness  or  otherwise,  that  they  could  not  be  induced  to  keep 
themselves  decent,  or  attend  to  their  duties,  and  he  made  the  guard 
take  them  daily  to  the  river,  and  strip  and  scrub  them  with  soap  and 
brooms.  Under  such  drastic  treatment,  they  speedily  recovered  their  tone. 
He  promptly  and  severely  punished  every  neglect  of  duty." 

Camp  Causten,  Aug.  22d\  1861. 
My  dear  Cousin  Lou: 

What  a  pleasant  thing  it  is  to  live,  and  how  I  do  enjoy 
it  here  on  the  banks  of  the  Potomac.  I  do  not  believe 
God  ever  made  a  more  beautiful  land  than  this.  How 
I  would  fight  for  it  if  I  believed  it  threatened  bv  an  un- 


78  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

scrupulous  foe!  Cousin  Lou,  I  used  to  think  the  "booty 
and  beauty"  allusion  a  sort  of  poor  joke,  too  sorry  even 
for  ridicule,  but  I  now  see  it  as  the  cunning  work  of  the 
far-sighted   master  who  knew  his  people. 

By-the-way  do  you  know  we  are  now  encamped  on 
the  Kosciusko  farm,  and  near  by  the  house  still  stands 
where  the  patriot  lived  ?  I  was  walking  in  a  cornfield 
today,  and  spied  the  silk  drooping  from  one  of  the  ears, 
dyed  a  deep  red.  I  plucked  it,  and  send  it  now  to  you 
in  memory  of  Kosciusko,  or  if  you  like  it  better,  in  memory 
of  Cousin  Will.  Bother!  I  was  getting  sentimental,  when 
a  gust  of  wind  tore  up  the  tent  pins  and  blew  out 
the  candle.  One  has  great  experiences  in  camp.  The 
other  night  I  was  softly  slumbering,  dreaming  of  Dolly 
Ann  or  of  cutting  a  Secessionist's  throat,  or  some- 
thing agreeable  at  any  rate,  when  I  heard  a  sound  like 
that  of  mighty  waters  —  I  felt  the  waves  washing  over 
me  —  then  followed  a  chilly  sensation.  I  awoke.  The 
stars  were  above  me  and  by  my  side  lay  a  sea  of  canvas  — 
"in  short,"  as  Mr.  Micawber  would  say,  my  tent  was 
blown  down.  Another  night  my  tent  was  pitched  on 
the  side  of  a  steep  hill.  I  wrapped  myself  in  my  blanket, 
braced  my  feet  against  the  tent-pole  and  fell  asleep.  In 
the  night  my  knees  relaxed,  and  no  longer  prevented 
by  the  prop,  I  slid  quietly  downward,  awaking  in  the 
morning  at  a  good  night's  march  from  the  point  at 
which  I  first  lay  down  to  rest. 

Much  obliged  for  the  information  you  send  me  regard- 
ing that  youngest  son  of  the  Earl  of  Montrose,  who  came 
to  America  and  graduated  at  Yale  College.  I  always 
knew  I  was  of  noble  degree,  and  have  felt  my  blood  pre- 
eminently Scotch  since  the  first  time  I  heard  Aunt  Caroline 
singing  "Where,  and  oh  where  is  my  Highland  Laddie 


WAR    LETTERS  79 

gone?"  I  look  too,  admiringly  upon  the  queenly  Julia, 
and  I  say,  "Nay,  nay,  bui  there's  no  <  hurl's  Mood  there." 
In  beatific  vision  the  sisters  five  file  pasi  me;  then  comes 
long  lanky  Sylvester  Vegetable  Graham,  leanest  of  nun, 
with  a  bag  of  oatmeal,  and  I  say  to  myself,  "Verily  my 
blood  is  very  Scotch." 

Give  my  best  love  to  that  wee  mite  of  a  little  lady,  wlio 
is  to  have  the  delightful  honor  of  taking  <  harge  of  my 
wooden  leg,  when  I  return  from  the  wars  a  garrulou 
one-legged  old  soldier.  Imagine  me,  Cousin  Lou,  tripping 
it  at  my  own  wedding  not  on  the  light  fantastic,  but  on 
timber  toes.  Now  let  us  consider  the  matter,  Cousin  Lou. 
Shall  the  leg  be  a  real  timber  one  though,  or  shall  a 
compromise  be  made  with  Nature,  and  one  of  the  flexible 
Anglesea  pattern  be  chosen  ? 

Alas,  alas!  All  day  long  we  have  heard  guns  firing  in 
the  distance.  Some  poor  fellows  must  have  fallen,  though 
we  get  no  intelligence  of  movements  made.  We  are  left 
out  of  the  question.  There  is  a  great  battle  soon  to  take 
place,  but  I  fear  the  79th  is  too  much  crippled  to  make 
a  great  show.  We  numbered  once  a  thousand  gallant 
hearts  —  we  number  now  700  men  capable  for  action; 
to  such  a  pass  we  have  been  reduced  by  death  and  what 
is  worse,  by  desertion.  Officers  have  deserted,  and  the 
men  have  followed  the  base  example.  I  have  seen  enough 
to  convince  me  that  this  is  no  war  for  foreigners.  It  is 
our  war,  and  let  us  cheerfully  bear  the  burden  ourselves. 
The  South  sends  its  best  blood  to  fight  for  a  phantom, 
but  we,  in  the  North,  send  our  scum  and  filth  to  fight  for 
a  reality.  It  is  not  thus  we  are  to  gain  the  victory.  I 
would  have  all  our  Northern  youth  not  talk,  but  act  — 
not  deem  their  lives  so  precious  as  their  honor.  Have 
you  read  the  names  of  those  who  resigned  their  commis- 


So  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

sions  after  the  Battle  of  Manassas  ?  The  names  of  over 
250  cowards.  Liie  is  sweet  to  all,  but  have  they  no  trust 
in  God  that  they  fear  the  bitterness  of  death  ?  Love  to 
all  friends  in  Enfield.     I  must  say  good-night. 

Au-RevoiTy 

Will. 

I  did  not  serve  as  a  private  but  in  the  capacity  of  Lieut, 
at  Bull  Run. 

Kosciusko  Farm, 

August  25th,  1 86 1. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  seated  writing  my  usual  Sunday  letter,  happy  to 
state  that  my  spirits  are  good  and  health  excellent,  as 
Uncle  Charles  will  confirm.  I  was  out  drilling  my  men 
yesterday,  when  my  attention  was  attracted  by  somebody 
nodding  to  me  in  a  familiar  style  —  a  second  glance  told 
that  it  was  Uncle  Charley,  and  no  other.  I  was  much 
pleased  at  his  kindness  in  looking  me  up,  as  well  as  to 
see  him  again.  You  will  find  he  is  looking  well,  and  will 
learn  from  him  that  he  entertains  Republican  sentiments 
of  so  decided  a  stripe  that  I,  who  was  formerly  a  sort  of 
an  abolitionist,  am  obliged  to  confess  myself  a  conserva- 
tive in  comparison.  I  received  from  Thomas  a  very 
pretty  present,  through  the  Express  office,  a  few  days  ago. 
It  consisted  of  a  case  containing  knife,  fork,  spoon  and 
cup  —  things  which  I  shall  find  highly  useful  when  on 
the  march.  When  in  Virginia  before,  provided  with  no 
such  conveniences,  fingers  were  obliged  to  adapt  them- 
selves to  the  performance  of  all  the  varied  functions  of 
"table  services."  You  ask  for  my  address!  I  never  can 
give  you  any  fixed  address,  as  no  Regiment  knows  where 


WAR    LKTTKKS  8l 

it  will  be  twenty-four  hours  in  advance,  but  anything 
directed  to  the  79th  Regiment,  N.  Y.  S.  M.,  Washington, 
will  be  forwarded  without  difficulty.  I  was  in  earnest 
in  wishing  that  I  was  connected  with  some  New  England 
Regiment,  but  not  in  earnesl  as  regards  any  intention  01 
deserting  my  present  post  because  of  any  difficulty  attend- 
ing it.  As  long  as  my  friends  stick  by  the  79th,  I  shall  not 
surely  be  less  faithful  than  are  they.  J  he  wish  to  change 
arose  from  a  desire  to  take  part  in  the  approaching  battle 
to  be  conducted  by  McClellan,  in  which,  it  seemed  prob- 
able, the  79th  would  be  too  much  crippled  to  take  any 
prominent  part.  Our  Regiment  is,  however,  now  rapidly 
recovering  from  the  effects  of  the  battle,  and  the  intrigues 
of  the  old  rum-selling  officers  now  happily  resigned.  I 
have  some  responsibility  resting  upon  me,  as  I  am  de- 
tailed to  take  sole  charge  of  one  of  the  Companies.  I 
have  the  duties  of  Captain,  1st  Lieutenant,  and  2d  Lieu- 
tenant, all  combined,  at  present  to  perform,  so  I  have 
little  right  to  think  of  abandoning  my  post.  In  confi- 
dence I  may  add,  that  possibly  five  or  six  of  us  may  be 
transferred  to  a  new  Regiment  by  the  Secretary  of  War. 
The  Regiment  would  be    under    bis    patronage,  and  be 

called  the  "Cameron  Highlanders."     In  this  new  Regi- 
es to 

ment  I  most  likely  would  be  assigned  the  post  of  Captain. 
However  neither  say  or  think  anything  about  this,  as  it 
is  by  no  means  determined  yet.  The  letter  from  Fraulein 
Mathilde  contained  the  kind  wishes  of  the  familv,  and 
an  invitation  to  be  present  at  her  wedding  which  is  to 
take  place  on  the  1st  of  September.  I  find  I  have  grown 
rusty  in  the  German  language,  so  that  I  had  no  little 
difficulty  in  deciphering  the  young  ladv's  epistle. 

Have   I   written   you   that  we   are   now   encamped   on 
Kosciusko's  farm  ?    It  is  a  pleasant  spot,  but  damp.     I 


82  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

hear  we  are  to  be  marched  off  somewhere  to-morrow. 
Report  names  Georgetown  as  our  probable  destination. 

Uncle  Charles  is  still  in  town  I  hear,  but  I  cannot  leave 
camp  to  visit  him. 

I  will  take  the  photograph  question  into  consideration 
when  we  get  paid  off.  Tell  Lilly  she  must  accept  thanks 
and  love  for  her  kind  letter,  but  I  do  not  mean  to  answer 
it  until  after  some  success  occurs. 

Thank  Mary  for  her  kind  intentions  regarding  writing 
me.  Love  to  the  little  ones.  Ask  Will  if  he  wants  to 
be  a  soldier.  Turly  shall  be  made  a  Congressman,  and 
get  appointed  Chairman  of  the  Military  Committee. 

Love  to  all. 
Believe  me, 
Very  Affec'y., 
William  T.  Lusk. 

Headquarters  jgrn  Regiment, 

Camp  Advance,  Va.  Co.  K. 

September  21st,  1861. 
Dear  Cousin  Lou: 

Let  me  see  —  it  is  a  long  time  since  I  wrote  you,  but 
I  am  not  forgetful.  I  must  thank  you  many  times  for 
your  kindness  in  writing  me  away  off  here.  Perhaps  you 
think  it  not  very  far,  only  four  miles  off  from  Washington; 
yet  it  is  so,  for  we  are  quite  shut  off  from  all  communi- 
cation with  the  outer  world.  My  goodness,  how  I  did 
cheer  Mrs.  Gen.  Smith  the  other  day  on  passing  her 
carriage  as  the  Regiment  was  returning  from  the  field 
where  its  colors  had  been  restored! 

I  am  not  quite  certain  that  Mrs.  Brigadier-Gen.  Smith 
was  beautiful,  yet   I  thought  her   so,   for   she   had   little 


WAR    LETTERS  83 

hands,  white   teeth,  and  \v;is   not  shouldering   a  musket, 

If  you  will  visit  camp,  Cousin  Lou,  I'll  crown  you  Queen 
of  Beauty  and  vote  you  lovelier  than  a  thousand  Mi  8. 
Brigadier-Gen.  Smiths.  Tell  Cousin  Henry  and  Dr. 
Grant  that  their  visit  to  me,  while  on  Kalorama  Heights, 
first  taught  me  that  there  was  si  ill  remaining  communi- 
cation with  the  world.  The  result  of  the  lesson  was,  that 
I  bought  a  looking-glass  and  combed  the  snarls  out  of 
my    hair. 

It  is  raining  to-night,  so  I  am  shut  in  my  tent.  Field 
life  agrees  with  me  excellently,  so  that  as  yet  I  have- 
hardly  had  an  ill  day.  Our  Regiment  has  been  unusually 
healthy,  there  having  been  no  deaths  from  sickness  in 
it  since  it  first  left  New- York.  A  captain  of  the  19th 
Indiana  Regiment  was  telling  me  that  they  had  lost  25 
of  their  number  from  disease  already,  although  they  have 
not  been  out  here  so  long  as  we  by  two  months.  This  I 
suppose  is  partly  owing  to  the  fact  that  the  city  soldiers 
endure  change  of  climate  better  than  country  ones; 
and  something  I  believe  is  due  to  our  surgeon  Dr.  Mc- 
Donald. The  Doctor  says  that  you  are  one  of  the  few 
women  for  whom  he  has  an  unbounded  admiration. 

You  would  laugh  if  you  could  hear  the  conversations 
between  our  Chaplain  and  the  profane  physicians.  Our 
parson  is  a  love  of  a  little  man  from  some  back  country 
village,  accustomed  to  be  kissed  (  ?),  admired,  and  petted 
by  the  ladies  of  his  congregation,  and  to  be  regarded 
as  a  model  of  eloquence  by  the  men.  Fired  with 
patriotic  zeal  he  volunteered  his  services  on  the  opening 
of  the  war,  to  his  country,  and  left  the  peace  of  home 
for  the  horrid  din  of  Mars.  But  the  horrid  din  of  Mars 
he  finds  to  his  astonishment,  not  nearly  so  agreeable 
as  being  kissed  (  ?)  and  petted  in  his  own  quiet  village. 


84  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

So  he  has  grown  petulant,  thinks  himself  unappreciated, 
and  calls  all  the  men  hardened  sinners,  because  they 
sometimes  look  incredulouswhen  he  answers  their"  Why  ?" 
with,  "It  is  so  for  I  say  so."  Shocking  unbelievers!  Dear 
little  parson  tells  us  weekly  not  to  fear  to  die,  but  to  face 
death  bravely,  as  we  are  certain  of  being  transported 
instantly  to  scenes  of  heavenly  joy.  Yet  our  little  parson 
whenever  an  alarm  occurs,  rushes  to  his  tent,  secures 
his  bag,  and  trots  off  in  all  haste  to  the  nearest  place 
of  shelter.  Taking  advantage  of  this  little  weakness,  the 
Doctor  is  in  the  habit  of  explaining  to  him  in  a  horridly 
lucid  way,  the  dreadful  nature  of  gunshot  wounds. 
Then  some  one  will  suddenly  jump  up,  assume  a 
listening  attitude  and  cry:  "Hark!  Was  that  a  gun?" 
The  comical  aspect  of  terror  which  is  thus  elicited, 
forms  an  inexhaustible  source  of  amusement  to  us  all. 
He  reminds  me  of  the  Chaplain  of  the  story,  who  bade 
the  soldiers  before  the  battle,  not  to  fear,  as  they  would 
assuredly  that  night,  if  they  fell,  sup  in  Paradise.  He 
himself  however  ran  away  when  the  first  shot  was  fired. 
An  indignant  hearer  of  his  morning  discourse  reminded 
him  of  his  encouraging  promises.  "No  thankee,"  said 
he,  "don't  talk  to  me,  I  never  did  like  suppers."  All 
of  which  story  you  can  anywhere  find  better  told  in  the 
newspapers. 

Next  to  the  parson,  our  greatest  source  of  entertain- 
ment is  the  article  called  "nigger,"  a  thing  I  never  saw 
until  I  came  to  "Ole  Virginny."  We  own  an  African  of 
the  Pongo  species,  a  sort  of  half  idiotic  monkey-man, 
partially  possessing  the  gift  of  speech,  and  totally  pos- 
sessing the  gift  of  doing  nothing.  I  consider  it  a  curious 
study  to  see  how,  when  he  is  ordered  to  perform  any 
service,  he  manages  most  ingeniously  not  to  do  it  at  all. 


WAR    IJ/I'IKKS  85 

You  should  sec  the  Pongo  though  in  the  Highland  cos- 
tume. "The  What  Is  It?"  will  have  to  retire  from  busi- 
ness. 

Good-bye  dear  Cousin  Lou. 

Very  affec'y., 

W.  T.  Lusk, 
Lieut.  Co.  K.  ygth  Regt. 

Reconnoissanck  at  Lewinsville  (Sept.   ii,  1861).     Restoration 

of  Colors  to  the  Highlanders.    Colonel  Stevens  Appointed 
Brigadier-General. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  326. 

"On  the  26th"  (  August)  "the  regiment  broke  camp,  marched  through 
Washington,  the  band  playing  the  dead  march,  by  order  of  the  colonel, 
in  token  of  their  disgraced  condition  and  loss  of  the  colors,  and  went 
into  camp  on  Kalorama  Hill,  beyond  Georgetown,  a  mile  from  the  Chain 
Bridge.  Col.  Stevens  named  the  new  location  Camp  Hope,  and  in  a 
brief  address  to  the  regiment  bade  them  hope,  apd  declared  that  together 
they  would  win  back  their  colors  and  achieve  a  glorious  career.  \\  ith 
all  his  matter-of-fact  judgment,  he  had  a  pronounced  vein  of  enthu- 
siasm and  poetic  feeling,  and  had  a  singular  power  of  arousing  them 
in  others,  and  of  appealing  to  the  higher  motives." 

Page  327.  "On  the  evening  of  September  6th,  a  large  force,  includ- 
ing the  Highlanders,  crossed  Chain  Bridge  to  the  southern  side  of  the 
Potomac,  and  took  up  positions  in  front  and  extending  to  the  left,  con- 
necting with  troops  from  Arlington.  At  midnight,  as  the  regiment  was 
drawn  up  in  line,  Col.  Stevens  addressed  them  as  follows: 

"  'Soldiers  of  the  79th!  You  have  been  censured,  and  I  have  been 
censured  with  you.  You  are  now  going  to  fight  the  battles  of  your 
country  without  your  colors.  I  pray  God  you  may  soon  have  an  oppor- 
tunity of  meeting  the  enemy,  that  you  may  return  victorious  with  your 
colors  gloriously  won.' " 

Page  328.  "The  troops  were  kept  hard  at  work,  thus  felling  forests 
and  digging  forts,  and  also  in  outpost  duty,  for  a  strong  picket  line  to 
cover  the  front,  posted  nearly  a  mile  in  advance,  had  to  be  maintained." 

Page  329.  "On  the  nth,"  (September,)  "under  orders  from  Gen. 
Smith,  but  with  strictest  injunction  not  to  bring  on  a  general  engagement 
under  any  circumstances,  Col.  Stevens,  with  2,000  troops,  made  a  recon- 
noissance  in  force  of  Lewinsville,  a  hamlet  six  miles  in  advance  of  Chain 
Bridge." 

The  Highlanders  were  of  this  force. 

Col.  Stevens  reported  of  Lewinsville,  "It  has  great  natural  advan- 
tages, is  easily  defensible,  and  should  be  occupied  without  delay." 


86  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Page  331.     The  Union  loss  was  two  killed,  and    thirteen  wounded. 

Page  332.  General  Baldy  Smith,  "perceiving  the  fine  order  and 
undaunted  bearing  of  the  troops,  and  learning  how  well  they  had  all 
behaved,  and  that  the  enemy  was  keeping  his  distance,  .  .  .  heartily 
congratulated  Colonel  Stevens  and  his  command  on  the  well-conducted 
and  successful  reconnoissance.  ...  A  few  days  later  the  colors  were 
restored  to  the  Highlanders  by  Gen.  McClellan  in  person,  in  recogni- 
tion of  their  soldierly  conduct  since  recrossing  the  Potomac,  especially 
in  the  affair  at  Lewinsville." 

"jgtb  Highlanders,"  p.  77. 

Lieut.  Elliott  says  of  his  command,  in  connection  with  the  recon- 
noissance at  Lewinsville,  Sept.  nth:  "Just  as  the  bugle  was  sounding 
(the  recall),  an  officer  rode  up  and  ordered  me  to  move  the  picket  parallel 
with  the  column,  at  the  same  distance  out,  and  preserving  the  same 
intervals,  so  as  to  protect  the  flank  from  surprise.  I  immediately  started 
for  the  guide  to  aid  me  in  carrying  out  the  order,  but  before  I  could 
find  him  another  order  came  to  recall  the  picket  as  soon  as  possible. 
Lieut.  Lusk  started  to  call  in  the  picket,  and  in  his  over-eagerness  at- 
tempted to  call  in  both  platoons,  which  caused  him  to  be  late  with  his 
own  wing.  As  soon  as  the  men  stationed  on  the  Falls  Church  road 
began  to  come  in,  I  observed  a  number  of  men  without  uniforms  emerge 
from  the  wood  at  the  side  of  that  road  and  creep  on  their  hands  and 
knees  along  the  fence  to  the  gate  where  the  cavalry  had  been  stationed; 
they  then  trailed  into  the  wood  on  the  right  of  Gilbert's  house.  Form- 
ing the  men  as  quickly  as  I  could,  I  made  a  signal  for  the  left  wing, 
under  Lieut.  Lusk,  to  retreat  through  the  cornfield,  as  they  were  cutting 
us  off,  and  started  with  what  remained  of  my  command  down  the  lane 
to  rejoin  our  regiment.  .  .  .  We  had  not  moved  fifty  paces  from  the 
house  when  a  volley  of  musketry  was  directed  obliquely  at  us  from 
the  left,  and  at  almost  the  same  instant  the  gun  opened  fire  on  our 
right.  Looking  back  I  saw  Lieut.  Lusk,  who  had  not  understood  my 
signal,  returning  with  the  last  of  his  men  into  the  very  yard  where  the 
enemy's  skirmishers  were.  By  this  time  nothing  could  have  been  easier 
than  to  have  taken  them  prisoners,  instead  of  which  the  skirmishers, 
apparently  thinking  themselves  surprised,  in  turn  fired  at  them  and 
retreated  by  the  side  of  the  house.  Lieut.  Lusk,  with  considerable 
adroitness,  leaped  the  fence,  followed  by  his  two  sergeants,  and  re- 
treated under  cover  of  the  cornfield  in  safety  to  his  regiment." 

"Life   of  General  Isaac   I.    Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  335. 

"General  Stevens's  appointment  as  brigadier  was  made  on  the  28th," 
(September)  "  and  on  the  following  day  he  was  formally  assigned  to  the 
command  of  the  third  brigade  of  Smith's  division,  consisting  of  the 
four  regiments  already  under  his  charge,  viz.:    the  Highlanders,  33rd 


WAR    LhTTKRS  87 

and  49th  New  York,  and  47th  Pennsylvania.  He  retained  the  imme- 
diate command  of  the  Highlanders  in  addition  to  thai  oi  the  brij 

Page  336.  "Gen.  Stevens  named  the  i><  ■.■.  position  occupied  by  his 
brigade,  which  was  not  far  from  Falls  Church,  thi  Camp  oi  thi  Big 
Chestnut,  from  a  huge  sylvan  monarch  near  by. 

Page  337.  "Drilling,  picketing,  and  tree-felling  fully  employed  the 
troops,  at  the  Camp  of  the  l>i^  Chestnut." 


Headquarters  79TH  Regt. 

Camp  Advance,  Co.  K. 

Virginia,   1861. 
Dear  Mother: 

A  most  delightful  moonlight  forbids  my  retiring  at 
the  usual  hour  to  rest,  so  I  will  write  and  let  you  know 
that  all  is  well  —  that  we  have  had  a  dull  week,  that 
there  has  been  naught  to  stir  the  sluggish  blood  since 
last  week  save  once,  when  it  was  thought  that  the  Army 
of  Beauregard  was  marching  in  heavy  columns  upon  us, 
but  it  didn't  come,  so  we  all  said  :  "Pooh,  pooh!  We  knew 
it  wouldn't.  They  are  too  wise  to  attack  us."  Alas,  that 
we  should  have  to  tell  that  sorry  tale  of  Bull  Run!  Walter 
has  written  me,  and  is  full  of  our  defeat.  He  does  not 
feel  flattered  by  the  cheap  lithographs  in  the  shop  windows 
representing  "Yankees  Running,"  which  are  thrust  upon 
his  sight  all  over  England.  He  is  delighted  though  to 
think  that  the  79th  did  well,  and  that  I  was  a  member 
of  the  Highland  Regiment.  As  we  file  out  of  our  camp, 
full  equipped,  the  soldiers  of  other  Regiments  are  wont 
to  say,  "There  go  the  Highlanders.  There  will  be  fight- 
ing to-day."  We  are  now  formidably  intrenched,  and 
I  think  can  make  a  tolerable  defence  against  the  foe. 
The  Richmond  Examiner  says:   "We"  (the  Southerners) 

flaunt  our  flao  defiantly  in  the  face  of  the  cowed  and 
craven-hearted  foe,  but  they  tamely  endure  the  insults  we 


88  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

heap  upon  them,  and  refuse  to  accept  our  challenge  to 
a  lair  and  open  fight."  Well  I  think  we  can  afford 
to  endure  the  flaunting  of  the  "stars  and  bars"  until 
McClellari  is  ready,  when  we  hope  to  march  forward, 
seeking  winter  quarters  in  the  pleasant  mansions  of  the 
South.  Just  this  same  thing  the  Southerners  are  hoping 
to  gain  in  the  North.  Beauregard  thinks  Philadelphia, 
Baltimore  and  New- York,  gay  places  in  the  season,  where 
the  Southern  youth  may  join  in  the  festivities  of  winter. 
Nous  verrons. 

We  have  a  little  parson  in  our  regiment,  who  has 
a  due  regard  for  his  personal  safety.  We  love  to  get  him 
into  our  tents,  and  describe  with  graphic  truthfulness  the 
horrid  nature  of  shell  wounds.  The  worst  of  shells  too, 
we  add,  is,  that  they  can  be  thrown  to  such  a  distance 
that  even  the  Doctor  and  Chaplain  are  exposed  to  their 
death-bearing  explosions.  Our  parson  grows  uneasy,  and 
when  an  alarm  is  given,  starts  off,  carpet-bag  in  hand, 
to  our  intense  amusement,  for  the  nearest  place  of  safety. 
He  is  like  that  worthy  chaplain,  who,  on  the  eve  of  battle, 
told  the  soldiers,  "Fear  not,  for  those  of  you  who  fall,  will 
this  night  sup  in  Paradise."  The  battle  commenced  and 
the  chaplain  began  to  display  most  entertaining  signs  of 
terror.  He  was  reminded  of  the  consoling  language  he 
had  himself  used  in  the  morning.  "No  thank  ye,"  he 
answered  quickly,  "I  never  did  like  suppers."  To  such 
an  extent  are  we  obliged  to  resort  to  everything  to  amuse 
ourselves.  Our  darkeys  give  us  some  amusement  and 
much  more  trouble.  Ours,  we  have  dubbed  the  "Pongo," 
who  knows  how  not  to  do  it,  in  a  manner  to  excite  our 
unbounded  admiration.  In  the  evening  these  Africans 
have  a  way  of  getting  around  the  fire  and  singing  real 
"nigger  melodies,"  which  are  somewhat  monotonous  as 


William   Thompson    Lusk 
at  the  age  of  seven  years 


WAR   LETTERS  89 

regards   the   music,    and    totally    idiotic    as    regards   tin- 
words.     A   favorite  of  theirs  goes   thus        viz: 

My  little  !><>:it  is  on  de  01  <;in 
Where  de  wild  bird  makes  de  musii 
All  de  day. 

This  will  sometimes  be  repeated  for  a  couple  of  hours  by 
the  indefatigable  nigger-     indefatigable  in  this  alone. 
Good-bye,  darling  mother. 

Most  aftec'y., 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

"Letters  of  a  Family  During  the  War"  Vol.  I,  p.  194. 

Extract  from  ;i  letter  of  E.  Woolscy  Howland,  written  to  her  husband, 
evidently  from  Washington,  dated  October  1st,  1861. 

"Very  little  to  tell  you  about  except  a  few  calls,  including  one  from 
Mrs.  General  Franklin  to  ask  us  to  take  tea  with  her  to-night.  Lieut. 
Lusk  of  the  79th,  whom  we  used  to  know  as  'Willy'  Lusk,  also  came. 
He  seems  to  have  grown  up  into  a  very  fine  young  fellow,  handsome 
and  gentlemanly,  and  with  the  same  sweet  expression  he  had  as  a  child. 
He  was  studying  medicine  in  Europe  when  the  war  broke  out,  but  came 
home  at  once  and  enlisted  as  Lieutenant  in  the  79th,  where  he  is  now 
Acting  Captain  —  so  many  of  the  regiment  were  either  killed  or  taken 
prisoners  at  Bull  Run." 

[Start  on  Port  Royal  Expedition] 

October  18th,  1861. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  can  only  write  you  a  few  hasty  lines.  We  have 
suddenly  been  summoned  to  Annapolis,  and  are  now  on 
board  ship,  bound  I  know  not  whither.  This  is  so  far 
pleasant,  as  there  is  a  chance  of  relief  from  the  wearisome 
picket  duties  which  devolve  upon  Regiments  on  the  ad- 
vanced outposts;  and  we  have  likewise  an  opportunity  for 
distinction,  as  well  as  to  do  the  country  good  service.  It 
is  so  far  a  disappointment,  in  that  I  had  a  leave  of  absence 
granted  me,  and  hoped  yesterday  to  be  spending  to-day 


9o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

with  my  dear  Mother.  I  am  very  tired,  as  I  marched 
all  last  night,  and  have  been  hard  at  work  all  this  morn- 
ins;.  Health  and  spirits  are  excellent.  Gen.  Stevens  will 
most  likely  command  our  expedition,  which  is  almost 
a  guarantee  of  success.  At  any  rate  we  will  trust  it  will 
prove  more  brilliant  even  than  the  affair  at  Hatteras.  At 
any  rate  let  us  pray,  come  what  will,  God  grant  us 
peace  in  the  life  hereafter.  A  thousand  times  love  for 
all. 

In  haste,  Affec'y., 

Will. 


"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  338. 

"On  October  16th,  Gen.  Stevens  unexpectedly  received  orders  to 
turn  over  the  command  of  his  brigade  to  the  senior  colonel,  and  report 
in  person  to  General  Thomas  W.  Sherman  at  Annapolis,  Md.,  by  day- 
light the  next  morning."  Upon  being  urged  by  Captain  David  Morrison, 
the  senior  officer,  to  say  good-by  to  his  regiment  in  person,  "he  rode 
in  front  of  the  line,  and  in  a  few  feeling  words  expressed  his  regards 
and  hopes  for  them  and  bade  them  farewell.  As  he  wheeled  and  rode 
off,  a  spontaneous  and  universal  cry  of  'Tak'  us  wi'  ye  !  Tak'  us  wi' 
ye!'  burst  from  end  to  end  of  the  line,  and  tears  stood  in  many  a  manly 
eye." 

Page  340.  "They"  (General  Stevens  and  others)  "reached  Annapo- 
lis that  evening,  and  were  most  cordially  received  by  General  Sherman, 
and  by  Colonel  Daniel  Leasure  of  the  100th  Pennsylvania,  known  as 
the  'Roundheads,'  which  was  to  form  part  of  General  Stevens's  new 
brigade.  His  first  act  on  reaching  Annapolis  was  to  apply  by  telegraph 
to  the  Secretary  of  War,  in  conjunction  with  General  Sherman,  for  the 
Highlanders.  He  also  personally  telegraphed  the  President  to  that 
effect.  Colonel  Leasure  too,  telegraphed  the  Secretary  that  his  regi- 
ment was  largely  composed  of  the  descendants  of  Scotch  Covenanters 
and  Cromwell's  soldiers,  and  were  anxious  to  be  joined  by  the  High- 
landers. .  .  .  General  McClellan  .  .  .  strenuously  objected  to  it,  pro- 
testing that  he  could  not  spare  one  of  his  best  veteran  regiments.  But 
Mr.  Lincoln  .  .  .  ordered  the  Highlanders  to  Annapolis  to  rejoin  their 
beloved  commander." 

General  Stevens  "discussed,  also,  McClellan's  character  without 
the  least  trace  of  animosity,  admitting  his  ability  and  patriotism,  but 
lamenting  his  fatal  lack  of  boldness  and  decision,  which,  he  said,  ren- 
dered his  failure  inevitable." 


WAR   LETTERS  m 

0(  tober  zist,  [861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

We  arc  sailing  rapidly  down  the  Chesapeake,  still  in 
doubt  as  to  our  ultimate  destination,  bui  i  xpecting  soon 
to  reach  Fortress  Monroe  where  possibly  there  may  be  a 
chance  of  mailing  a  letter.  We  feel  as  though  we  were 
leaving  the  scene  of  old  triumphs,  and  old  disasters  — 
of  the  latter  we  are  mindful  of  many;  so  ir  was  d<  In  are 
sarcasm  upon  the  part  of  our  Bandmaster  which  induced 
him  to  strike  up  "Carry  me  back  to  old  Virginny!"  as 
we  were  crossing  the  Chain  Bridge  (which  spans  the 
Potomac),  leaving  the  "sacred  soil"  behind  us.  And 
now  we  are  embarked  on  the  "Vanderbilt,"  bound,  this 
much  we  know,  for  "Dixie."  I  am  hoping  to  exchange 
salutations  with  some  of  my  old  friends  in  Charleston. 
What  fun  it  would  be  to  be  playing  the  magnanimous 
to  a  captive  Prince  Hugo,  or  Whalley  despising  Yankees 
much,  or  any  other  of  the  royal  youth  who  live  in  the 
Kingdom  of  South  Carolina.  It  may  be  we  are  to  visit 
Mobile.  If  so,  tell  Hunt  I  will  try  and  collect  his  rents 
with  interest.     But  why  speculate  ? 

Let  us  pray  for  laurels  and  victory!  Much  is  expected 
of  the  79th  Regiment,  I  find.  "My  Highlanders!"  as 
Gen.  Stevens  calls  them.  "They  are  equal  to  Regulars," 
the  General  is  reported  to  have  said  to  Gen.  Sherman  J 
commanding  our  expedition.  "Send  for  them!"  says 
Sherman.  They  are  sent  for,  and  arrive  on  shipboard 
in  a  horrible  state  of  intoxication,  with  bloodv  faces  and 
soiled  clothes.  The  Chaplain  of  the  8th  Michigan  Regi- 
ment is  horrified.  He  preaches  to  his  men,  and  savs: 
"I  wish  to  make  no  invidious  comparisons,  but  after 
what  I've  seen  of  late,  I'm  proud  of  you  for  your  excellent 

1  Thomas  W.  Sherman. 


92  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

conduct!"  Well,  we  must  hope  that  "My  Highlanders" 
will  silence  invidious  comparison  when  facing  the  foe. 
You  tell  me  Ellis  thinks  I  ought  to  boast  of  my  Graham 
blood,  and  gently  urge  the  same  yourself,  but  the  fact  is, 
nothing  has  caused  more  amusement  than  Ellis'  own  pre- 
tensions to  his  descent  from  the  King  of  the  Hebrides. 
Indeed,  on  one  occasion,  up  at  Sunbury  —  a  country 
town  of  Pennsylvania — when  he  was  introduced  on  a 
public  occasion  to  the  worthy  citizens  of  the  place  as 
a  lineal  descendant  of  Donald,  King  of  the  Hebrides, 
a  man  in  the  audience  forgot  himself  so  far  as  to  call  out, 
"Damn  Donald,  King  of  the  Hebrides!"  which  was  highly 
improper,  and  wholly  irrelevant,  yet  very  entertaining  to 
those  who  heard  it.  I  am  awaiting  an  official  announce- 
ment of  the  birth  of  Walter's  boy,  and  mean  to  write  con- 
gratulations as  soon  as  I  can  find  time.  Hall  will  soon 
be  married,  he  tells  me.  All  my  friends  are  getting 
settled,  but  I  am  a  Nomad,  fit,  I  fancy,  for  my  present 
mode  of  life,  which  I  find  healthy  and  by  no  means 
disagreeable.  Indeed,  were  my  brother  officers  of  a  more 
agreeable  character,  I  would  take  to  soldiering  with  a 
relish,  and  with  a  reasonable  amount  of  success  might 
cry,  "Vive  la  guerre!"  However  all  dreams  of  the  future 
terminate  in  dreams  of  peace,  of  home,  and  honorable 
repose  in  advancing  years,  all  of  which,  dear  mother, 
may  we  enjoy  together,  loving  our  country  better,  for 
having  proved  that  it  was  so  dear  that  we  were  willing 
even  to  give  up  our  life  for  its  preservation. 

Well,  the  blessings  of  peace  be  upon  all  at  home.     Kiss 
the  little  ones  for  me.     Give  love  to  all  and 

Believe  me, 

Affec'y., 
Will. 


WAR    LKTThkS  93 

October  25th,  1861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

It  is  with  extreme  pleasure  I  write  pou  to-day.    We  are 

still  at  Fort  Monroe,  and  ol  course  I  do  not  know  how 
long  we  arc  to  remain  here,  bul   Old   Poini   Comfort  has 
proved  itself  such  to  me.      1  think  few  up  to  the  pn 
time  have  served  under  greater  disadvantages  in  the  army 
than   I.    A  member  of  a  Scotch   Regiment    strong   in   its 

foreign  prejudices,  introduced    as  I  was  by , a  man 

greatly  unpopular  among  the  men,  I  have  enjoyed  little 
prestige  or  favor.  We  have  had  hard  work  to  do,  and  for 
four  months  I  have  suffered  from  extremes  of  heat  and 
cold,  from  hunger  and  wet,  and  sleepless  nights  —  from  all 
the  hardships  of  outpost  life  —  have  had  the  credit  which 
I  felt  was  due,  denied,  and  have  waited  patiently,  though 
sometimes  against  hope.  After  Col.  Stevens  became 
Brig. -Gen.,  our  Regiment  fell  to  the  command  of  .  .  . 
Morrison,  who  sought  to  exhibit  his  authority  by  all 
sorts  of  petty  and  irritating  acts  of  insolence  toward 
myself.  The  life  became  intolerable,  and  I  sent  in  my 
resignation.  I  have  written  you  how  kindly  Gen.  Stevens 
acted  in  the  matter.  I  withdrew  the  resignation  tem- 
porarily, however,  on  learning  from  Gen.  Stevens  the 
probability  of  a  speedy  action. 

When  Gen.  Stevens  was  detached  from  our  Brigade 
to  command  one  stationed  at  Annapolis,  I  was  left, 
almost  without  appeal  from  the  insults  of  .  .  .  Morrison. 
I  found  my  rights  taken  away,  and  favors  bestowed  on 
low,  ignorant  rowdies.  I  then  obtained  a  furlough, 
meaning  to  arrange  some  plan  of  honorable  escape  while 
on  a  visit  home. 

Suddenly  a  despatch  came  ordering  our  Regiment  to 


94  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

meet  Gen.  Stevens  at  Annapolis,  and  it  was  whispered 
our  destination  was  to  be  some  place  on  the  Southern 
coast.  I  thereupon  pocketed  all  affronts,  gave  up  all 
thoughts  of  a  leave  of  absence,  and  resolved  to  be  resigned 
to  the  painfulness  of  my  position,  and  to  perform  any 
duties  that  might  be  allotted  me.  A  few  days  ago  I  was 
appointed  officer  of  the  day.  The  duties  of  the  day  were 
arduous,  and  for  twenty-four  hours  I  had  no  sleep. 
It  was  about  J \  in  the  morning  and  my  duties  had  nearly 
expired,  when  Gen.  Stevens  desired  to  see  the  officer  of 
the  day.  I  supposed  it  was  to  perform  some  business 
in  connection  with  my  position.  On  reporting  myself 
he  said,  "Mr.  Lusk  I  wish  to  have  a  few  words  with  you." 
"Yes,"  said  I,  "but  be  quick  as  my  time  has  nearly  ex- 
pired." "Oh!"  said  he,  "I  only  wish  to  tell  you  that  you 
are  appointed  my  Aide-de-camp.  You  know  my  peculi- 
arities, and  if  we  are  satisfied  with  each  other  I  think 
you  will  have  no  reason  to  repent  of  your  appointment." 
I  thanked  him,  told  him  I  was  proud  to  accept  the 
appointment.  So  now,  Mother,  with  best  love  to  all 
the  dear  ones  at  home,  I  subscribe  myself, 

Your  affectionate  son, 

Capt.  W.  T.  Lusk, 
Aide-de-camp  to  Gen.  Stevens, 
Sherman  s  Division. 

The  Port  Royal  Expedition 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  341. 

"The  force  which  General  Sherman  was  fitting  out  at  Annapolis  was 
destined,  in  conjunction  with  the  navy,  to  secure  a  harbor  on  the  Southern 
coast  to  serve  as  a  base  for  the  blockading  fleets.  General  Sherman 
was  a  veteran  regular  officer  of  artillery,  who  had  greatly  distinguished 
himself  at  the  battle  of  Buena  Vista,  a  thorough  soldier,  a  strict  disci- 
plinarian, devoted  to  his  profession,  and  moreover  a  man  of  ability, 
sound  judgment,  and  true  patriotism,  but  perhaps  somewhat  deficient 


WAR   LETTERS  95 

in  enterprise.     He  personally  applied  foi  General  Steveni,  foi  whom 
he  entertained  greal  esteem,  as  one  "I  lii'.  brigade  commanders.     Eiii 
force  numbered  sonic  twelve  thousand,  all  new,  raw  volunteei 
two  regular  batteries  and  the  Highlanders, who, having  fought  ;it  Mull 
Run,  were  looked  up  to  as  veterans  by  the  other  troop',." 

Page  342.  "The  Highlanders  arrived"  (at  Annapolis)  "on  the  18th" 
(October)  "and  the  next  day  the  troops  wen  taken  ofl  in  small  l>;iy 
steamboats  to  the  large  ocean  steamships  anchored  two  miles  out,  and 
embarked  upon  them.  The  largest  ol  these  vessels,  and  second  only  to 
the  Great  Eastern,  was  the  Vandcrbilr,  a  noble  side-wheel  ship  of  1 
thousand  tonnage,  which  had  recently  been  given  the  government  by 
Cornelius  Vanderbilt."  Gen.  Stevens  and  staff  and  the  llighlai, 
were  among  those  on  this  steamer. 

Page  34 ].  "The  General  appointed  as  his  first  Aide-dc-Camp, 
Lieut.  William  T.  Lusk,  of  the  Highlanders,  an  educated  and  high- 
toned  gentleman,  who  had  abandoned  his  studies  in  Germany  to  fight 
for  his  country,  and  who  proved  a  brave  and  excellent  officer,  and  has 
since  achieved  distinction  in  his  profession  as  a  physician." 

"The  transports  sailed  on  the  20th  and  reached  Fortress  Monroe 
the  next  day.  Here  were  awaiting  them  a  fleet  of  thirty  war  ships,  under 
Commodore  Samuel  F.  Dupont,  and  a  large  number  of  sailing  vessels 
laden  with  munitions  and  stores.  The  expedition  lay  here  at  anchor 
for  a  week,  completing  the  necessary  preparations." 


[Naval  Engagement  at  Port  Royal,  Nov.    7,    1861] 

Headquarters  2nd  Brigade, 

Hilton  Head,  Nov.  qth,  1861. 
My  dear  Mother: 

It  is  a  long,  long  time  since  I  have  heard  from  home  — 
nearly  three  weeks  I  think  since  we  have  been  blessed 
with  news  by  mail,  and  all  this  time  I  am  wondering  how 
you  are  all  faring  in  New- York.  Well,  when  a  mail  bag 
does  come,  may  it  be  crowded  with  all  sorts  of  good  news. 
Now  we  have  good  news  to  report,  for  we  are  now  enjoy- 
ing ourselves  in  the  pleasant  climate  of  South  Carolina. 

We  have  been  many  days  on  shipboard,  1700  of  us 
all  together,  on  board  the  good  ship  "Vanderbilt"  which 
bravely  rode  the  storm,  while  other  good  ships  foundered 


96  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

in  the  sea.  But  the  storm  abated,  and  the  winds  went 
down,  and  we  were  lying  off  the  coast  of  South  Carolina. 
Then  we  thought  that  a  death  struggle  was  about  to  com- 
mence, for  were  we  not  to  lock  arms,  and  wrestle,  with 
traitors  at  the  very  headquarters  of  rebellion  ?  We  lay 
off  Beaufort  Harbor  some  sixty  hours  in  idleness,  waiting 
for  the  ball  to  open.  That  navy  though  is  a  slow  affair, 
and  we  abused  it  mightily,  being  impatient  to  decide  the 
fate  of  the  expedition.  Our  naval  commanders  —  Com- 
modore Dupont  and  Secretary  of  Navy  Welles  —  re- 
ceived most  unflattering  notices.  Why  would  they  not 
begin  ?  Finally  the  old  concern  got  a  working  —  the 
"Wabash"  led  off,  and  was  followed  by  a  whole  fleet  of 
minor  vessels.  They  sailed  into  line,  and  soon  were 
sharply  engaged  with  the  forts  protecting  the  entrance 
to  the  Harbor.  For  four  hours  shot  were  poured  thickly 
into  the  defenses  of  the  besieged,  and  nearly  as  long  a  time 
the  besiegers  sent  destruction  among  our  ships.  But  the 
terrible  explosions  of  our  shell,  the  steady  broadsides 
poured  from  the  Frigate  "Wabash,"  and  the  sure-aimed 
missiles  sent  from  the  little  gunboats  that  would  run  up 
close  to  the  shore,  ensuring  thus  accuracy  of  aim  —  all 
these  things  were  terrible  in  their  effect  upon  the  foe. 
At  last  a  white  flag  floated  from  the  parapet  of  their  forti- 
fication, and  quickly  a  white  flag  was  despatched  from 
the  "Wabash"  to  the  shore.  Hip, Hip,  Hurrah!  We  see  — 
ay  —  we  rub  our  eyes  —  is  it  really  true  ?  We  see  the 
American  banner  once  more  floating  on  the  soil  of  South 
Carolina.  All  this  time  we  were  looking  on,  silent  spec- 
tators of  the  scene.  But  now  the  harbor  rings  with  the 
shouts  of  applause,  with  which  we  greeted  the  great  naval 
victory.  We  forgot  for  a  moment  how  slow  Secretary 
Welles  is,  and  how  dreadfully  slow  are  all  the  operations 


WAR    LK'ITfcKS 


97 


of  the  Navy.    And  now  we  vile  Yankee  hordes  are  over- 
running the  pleasani  Islands  about  Beaufort,  rioting  upon 

sweet  potatoes  and  Southern  sunshine.  Hilton  Head  is 
a  sandy  island  hut  beautiful  with  palmetto  leaves,  cotton 
fields,  magnolia  and  orange  groves,  and  plantations  of 
sugar  cane.  Here  lived  the  Pinckneys,  the  Draytons,  and 
other  high-blooded  Hidalgos,  whose  effervescing  exuber- 
ance of  gentlemanly  spirit  have  done  so  much  to  cause 
our  present  troubles.  Alas!  Yankee  hordes,  ruthless  in- 
vaders— the  vile  Hessians — infest  their  splendid  planta- 
tions. One  poor  fellow  was  taken  prisoner;  afterward 
we  learned  there  was  in  our  hospital  a  brother  of  his, 
dying  from  disease,  a  young  man  who  was  too  ill  to 
retreat  when  his  comrades  fled  precipitately.  The  brother 
first  mentioned  ventured  to  request  that  they  two  might 
remain  together.  To  his  surprise  the  request  was  will- 
ingly granted,  and  they  seemed  to  feel  that  we  had  shown 
them  a  great  kindness.  The  effects  left  by  the  South 
Carolinians  in  their  flight  show  that  there  were  many 
young  men  of  wealth  among  them,  who,  feeling  obliged 
probably,  to  do  their  duty  as  soldiers,  selected  the  neigh- 
borhood of  Beaufort,  which  is  a  kind  of  Southern  Sara- 
toga. But  if  the  flower  of  South  Carolina  youth,  it  is  to  be 
regretted  that  the  flower  never  paid  more  attention  to  the 
spelling-book.  A  letter  written  them  from  a  friend  exhorts 
them  to  remember  that  they  are  "of  gentilmanly  blud." 
As  a  sort  of  memento  I  send  you  enclosed  a  "poem," 
the  brilliancy  of  which  will  make  it  pay  for  the  perusal. 
I  saw  William  Ely  yesterday.  It  is  long  since  I've  seen 
him  before,  and  he  has  changed  so  that  I  did  not  recog- 
nize him  until  he  gave  me  his  name.  If  I  had  time  I 
would  write  pages  more,  but  I  am  full  of  business  now. 
Oh  a  thousand  times  love  and  oceans  of  kisses  for  sisters 


98  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

and  little  ones,  with  less  demonstrative  but  very  warm 
regards  for  all  friends. 

I  remain  Affec'y., 

Will. 

Can't  stop  to  correct  what  I've  written  so  excuse  mis- 
takes. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  344. 

"It  was  a  fine,  bracing  autumn  afternoon,  October  29,  when  the  great 
fleet  sailed  out  of  the  Chesapeake  in  two  parallel  columns  a  mile  apart. 
The  giant  warship  Wabash  lead  the  right  column.  .  .  .  The  third  day 
a  furious  storm  struck  the  combined  fleet  and  scattered  it  far  and 
wide."  .  .  .  The  Vanderbilt  was  among  the  first  to  arrive  at  Port 
Royal  on  November  3d,  and  by  the  6th,  nearly  all  the  ships  had 
assembled.     The  loss  of  life  was  7  drowned  and  93  captured. 

Page  345.  "  Port  Royal  was  defended  by  earthworks  on  each  side 
of  the  entrance,  Fort  Walker  on  Hilton  Head,  on  the  south  side,  and  Fort 
Beauregard  on  Bay  Point,  on  the  north.  These  were  strong  and  well 
constructed  forts,  with  heavy  parapets,  traverses,  and  bomb-proofs,  moun- 
ted forty-one  guns  of  large  caliber,  and  were  garrisoned  and  defended 
by  three  thousand  troops." 

"Rebellion  Record,"    Vol.  Ill,  p.  104  of  Documents. 
Part  of  General  Tbos.  W.  Sherman  's  Report,  Nov.  8th,  1861. 

"Our  original  plan  of  cooperation  of  the  land  forces  in  the  attack 
had  to  be  set  aside,  in  consequence  of  the  loss  during  the  voyage,  of  a 
greater  portion  of  our  means  of  disembarkment,  together  with  the  fact 
that  the  only  point  where  the  troops  should  have  landed,  was  from  five 
to  six  miles,  measuring  around  the  intervening  shoal,  from  the  anchoring 
place  of  our  transports. 

"It  was  therefore  agreed  that  the  place  should  be  reduced  by  the  naval 
force  alone.  ...  I  deem  it  an  imperative  duty  to  say  that  the  firing  and 
manoeuvering  of  our  fleet  against  that  of  the  rebels  and  their  formidable 
land  batteries  was  a  master-piece  of  activity  and  professional  skill  that 
must  have  elicited  the  applause  of  the  rebels  themselves  as  a  tactical 
operation.  I  think  that  too  much  praise  cannot  be  awarded  to  the  ser- 
vice and  skill  exhibited  by  the  flag  officer  of  the  naval  squadron,  and  the 
officers  connected  with  his  ships.  I  deem  the  performance  a  masterly 
one,  and  it  ought  to  have  been  seen,  to  be  fully  appreciated.  After  the 
works  were  reduced,  I  took  possession  of  them  with  the  land  forces." 


WAR   LET!  ERS  99 

"Life  of  General  I  sum   I .  Slrvrns,"   V<>1.  II ,  }>.  340,. 

" Immediately  after  landing,  General  Sherman  held  a  conference  with 
his  general  officers  as  to  undertaking  an  ollcnsivc  movements  I  he  enemy 
was  evidently  demoralized,  and  either  Charleston  or  Savannah  might 

fall  before  a  sudden  dash,  and  offered  a  tempting  prize.      Bill  th 

eral  opinion  was  that  a  movement  upon  either  involved  too  great  risks, 
and  that  the  first  duty  was  t<>  fortify  and  rendet  absolutely  secure  the 
point  already  gained.    General  Stevens  alone  dissented  from  this  view. 

He  strenuously  urged  an  aggressive  movement  inland  to  the  mainland, 
then,  turning  to  right  or  left,  against  one  of  the  cities.  In  answer  to 
objections,  he  declared  that  the  overpowering  naval  force  rendered 
Hilton  Head  already  secure,  and  it  could  be  fortified  at  leisure.  The 
navy  too  could  support  an  advance,  and  cover  a  withdrawal  in  case  of 
need.  The  country  was  full  of  fiat  boats  used  by  the  planters  for  the 
transportation  of  cotton.  Hundreds  of  these  could  be  collected.  .  .  . 
But  the  cautious  counsel  prevailed,  and  General  Sherman  reaped  the 
reward  of  his  lack  of  enterprise  by  being  superseded  a  few  months  later, 
after  rendering  faithful  service.  Certainly  he  lost  a  great  opportunity. 
With  such  subordinates  as  Generals  Stevens  and  Wright,  and  the  navy 
to  assist,  lie  might  have  taken  Savannah,  and  could  not  have  been  badly 
damaged,  even  if  repulsed." 

Page  351.  General  Stevens  writes  to  his  wife  from  Hilton  Head, 
December  5th: 

"My  brigade  is  still  at  work  on  the  entrenchments.  They  have  done 
an  immense  amount  of  work,  much  to  the  satisfaction  of  General  Sher- 
man. .  .  .  Our  mess  consists  of  the  brigade  Quartermaster,  Captain 
Lilly;  the  brigade  surgeon,  Dr.  Kemble;  my  aide-de-camp,  Lieut. 
Lusk;  Hazard,  and  myself.  We  have  a  most  excellent  cook,  brought 
from  New  York,  and  a  good  dining-room  servant  picked  up  here.  .  .  . 
How  long  we  shall  remain  here  I  cannot  form  an  idea  —  probably  some 
months." 


Headquarters  Second  Brigade, 
Hilton  Head,  S.  C. 

November  13th,  1861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  delighted,  after  several  busy  days,  once  more  to 
have  an  opportunity  to  quiet  the  uneasiness  of  your 
anxious  heart,  and  assure  you  of  my  continued  welfare. 
We  are  now  fairly  ensconced  on  South  Carolina  soil. 
Our  headquarters  are  at  an  old  wooden  building  innocent 


ioo  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

of  paint,  but  rendered  interesting  by  a  large  hole  in  the 
side,  caused  by  the  passage  of  one  of  our  shot.  These 
were  pleasant  places  that  the  planters  have  abandoned 
us,  and  though  conscious  that  our  victory  has  been  glori- 
ous, and  that  a  heavy  blow  has  been  struck,  would  to  God 
that  this  war  had  never  visited  us,  and  that  the  planters 
were  once  more  peacefully  cultivating  their  pleasant 
homes.  The  country  for  many  miles  around  has  fallen 
into  the  hands  of  our  armies,  and,  unhappily,  victors  are 
apt  to  be  ruthless  in  destroying  the  property  of  conquered 
enemies. 

However,  the  season  of  pillage  is  almost  over.  Our 
camps  are  being  well  guarded,  and  the  opportunities  for 
the  escape  of  straggling  parties  of  marauders  have  ceased. 
Every  effort  has  been  made  to  check  wanton  excesses, 
and  it  has  been  made  for  a  few  days  past  almost  the  sole 
duty  of  the  Aides  to  scour  the  country  for  the  purpose 
of  intercepting  parties  wandering  about  without  proper 
authority.  In  this  manner  I  have  come  to  see  something 
of  neighboring  plantations,  which  are  among  the  wealthiest 
in  South  Carolina. 

I  wrote  you  before  that  here  lived  the  Pinckneys,  the 
Popes,  a  gentleman  named  Jenkins-Stoney,  and  others 
whose  names  may,  or  may  not  be  familiar  to  you.  Their 
houses  are  in  the  old  fashioned  Southern  mansion  style, 
and   show  evidences  of  luxury  and  comfort. 

By-the-way,  I  saw  a  letter  from  a  Secession  soldier 
named  Lusk  the  other  day,  which  dilated  much  on  the 
justice  of  the  Southern  cause,  and  the  certainty  that  God 
would  give  the  South  the  victory.  I  hear  there  is,  or  was 
previous  to  our  arrival,  a  large  family  of  Lusks  at  Beaufort, 
a  few  miles  distant.  I  regret  to  say  that  the  letter  I  have 
mentioned,   did   not   show  the  writer  to   have  displayed 


WAR    LK'ITKKS  ioi 

any  great  diligence  in  studying  his  spelling-book  in  the 

days  of  early  youth.  The  weather  here  is  warm  as  sum- 
mer. Oranges  hang  still  in  ripe  profusion  on  the  n 
the  cotton  remains  unpicked,  and  the  corn  remains  for 
us  to  gather.  Negroes  crowd  in  swarms  to  our  lines, 
happy  in  the  thought  of  freedom,  dancing,  singing,  void 
of  care,  and  vainly  dreaming  that  all  toil  is  in  future  to 
be  spared,  and  that  henceforth  they  are  to  lead  that  life 
of  lazy  idleness  which  forms  the  Nigger's  Paradise.  I 
fear  that  before  long  they  have  passed  only  from  the 
hands  of  one  taskmaster  into  the  hands  of  another. 

All  this  long  time  I  get  no  news  from  home,  and  am 
eagerly,  impatiently,  awaiting  the  advent  of  the  mail 
which  is  to  recompense  for  the  long  weeks  of  waiting.  I 
may  write  very  irregularly,  as  my  time  was  never  so  little 
my  own  as  now.  I  think,  when  the  "Vanderbilt"  returns, 
you  will  see  my  old  school  friend  Sandford,  who  will 
bear  you  news  of  me.  Sandford  is  a  young  fellow,  of 
the  family  of  the  name,  so  extensively  engaged  in  shipping 
interests.  I  mention  this  as  possibly  Uncle  Phelps  may 
know  of  them.  Have  Lilly  and  Tom  any  intention  of 
soon  being  married  ?  I  send  by  Sandford,  a  hundred 
dollars  of  my  pay  home  to  be  delivered  to  Uncle  Phelps, 
and  would  like  $25.00  of  it  to  be  expended  in  buying  Lilly, 
when  the  wedding  day  comes,  some  remembrance  from 
brother  Will.  I  enclose  in  this  letter  a  $5.00  bill  to  be 
especially  employed  in  the  purchase  of  toys  for  the  chil- 
dren. I  would  like  much  to  see  little  Willie  and  Turlie 
once  more.  If  I  possibly  can,  I  shall  try  and  get  a  leave 
of  absence  about  Christmas  time,  though  I  hardly  expect 
to  be  successful.  Walter,  I  suppose,  is  fairly  home  by 
this  time.  I  wTould  have  written  before,  congratulating 
him   upon    the  arrival  of  his  little  boy,    but  have  been 


102  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

waiting  to  get  hold  of   the    letter    which    announces    it. 
Bevond  the  fact  that  he  is  a  father  I  know  nothing. 

Give  love  to  all  my  friends,  and  all  who  feel  an  interest 
in  me.  I  would  like  to  see  you  soon  again,  which,  in  fact, 
is  the  burthen  of  all  the  Southern  letters  we  have  inter- 
cepted. There  is  one  thing  very  conspicuous  in  all 
letters  from  Southern  soldiers.  I  refer  to  the  deep  re- 
ligious vein  pervading  them.  Their  religious  impres- 
sions seem  to  be  warmer  than  those  of  our  troops.  One 
poor  fellow  fears  their  cause  is  doomed  because  of  the 
fearful  immorality  in  their  ranks.  "Why,"  he  writes, 
"I  even  hear  that  officers  have  been  known  to  curse  the 
men  under  their  command." 

Good-bye, 

Very  Affec'y., 

Will. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade, 

Hilton  Head,  Dec.  2d,   1861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

A  real  Southern  storm  is  without  —  the  rain  falls 
heavily,  thunder  rolls  in  the  distance,  the  fly  of  my  tent 
flaps  noisily  —  yet  here  within  all  is  peace  and  quiet, 
loving  not  stormy  thoughts.  Let  us  look  about  my 
tent  a  little.  The  bottom  is  boarded  and  covered  with 
straw;  a  washstand  occupies  the  corner;  a  bed,  com- 
fortable with  blankets,  extends  along  one  of  the  sides; 
from  the  tent-poles  hang  my  sword,  sash  and  belt,  my 
military  coat,  and  such  clothes  as  are  needful  for  daily 
wear.  Then  I  am  sitting  on  my  valise  (Lieut.  Elliott's 
name  is  upon  it),  and  am  writing  at  a  table  of  rude  con- 
struction —  an  old  shutter,  robbed  from  a  Secession  barn, 
laid  upon  a  box — yet,  covered  with  the  beautiful  blanket 


WAR    LKTTKRS 


''''i 


which  came  a  gift  from  Hum,  it  has  a  fine,  jaunty 
look,  and  we  think  ourselves  elegant  in  the  extreme, 
especially  when  we  put  our  new  coffee-pot  upon  it,  and 
sit  writing  at  it  for  the  purpose  of  spinning  «'i  yarn.  A 
circular  yarn  I  call  it,  for  I  intend  it  for  all  the  kind 
friends  whose  loving  thoughts  were  so  ahundantly  mani- 
fest in  that  box  of  "goodies"  which  the  "Bienville" 
brought  me.  There's  one  thing  that  I've  been  keeping 
back  all  this  time  —  the  cunning  rogue  that  I  am.  Its  a 
big,  blue  Secession  chest,  a  good  deal  battered  and  worn, 
but  I  have  only  to  throw  open  the  lid  — and  presto  fin 
the  excitement  I  had  nearly  written  prestidigitato)  —  I 
feel,  see,  think  all  sorts  of  things  —  things  around  which 
cluster  pleasant  memories. 

Let  us  see!  Come,  oh  bottle  of  Abreco,  out  of  thy 
hiding  place,  for  thou  must  distil  for  me  dainty  fancies 
warm  as  the  sun  that  ripened  the  grapes  out  of  which 
thou  art  made!  Ay,  and  a  cigar  I  must  have  too  —  a 
real  Havana  —  Santa  Rosa  is  inscribed  upon  it.  Why 
that  was  the  name  of  a  little  Jew  maiden  whom  I  once 
knew,  and  concerning  which  Miss  Ellen  Dwight  with 
her  superior  worldly  knowledge,  whispers  in  the  ear  of 
Sam  Elliott,  "Oh  strange  infatuation!"  But  no  matter. 
Let  the  fragrant  clouds  arise;  clouds  bearing  fair,  friendly, 
earthly  visions!  Stop  though!  There  the  cap  of  blue 
and  white,  knit  by  small,  slender  fingers.  Dear  Lilly, 
I  put  it  on  now,  and  now  I  take  it  ofF  and  look  at  it. 
It  has  a  pretty  maidenly  appearance  about  it,  and  sug- 
gests indefinitely  kisses  from  red  pouting  lips,  and  the 
sort  of  romantic  dreams  in  which  sentimental  vouths 
indulge.  Some  such  articles  as  this,  probably,  Penelope 
spun  while  waiting  her  Lord's  return  from  Trov.  Is 
Penelope  quietly  spinning  for  me  still  ?     Or  is  the  yarn 


io4  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

run  out,  and  does  she  now  bend  a  willing  ear  to  new 
suitors  ?  If  so,  why  then,  bother  take  Penelope;  let  us 
look  at  the  stockings!  They  have  a  jolly  comfortable 
aspect.  They  bring  one  from  visions  of  "airy,  fairy 
Lilians"  of  poet  fancy,  to  the  substantial  bread-and- 
butter  sentiment  of  Germany.  They  are  the  work  of 
comfortable  middle-aged  Penelopes,  I  fancy.  I  can 
commence  at  the  toes  of  them,  if  I  choose,  and  unravel 
them  slowly,  and  each  time  the  yarn  makes  a  circuit, 
I  can  feel  sure  that  I  am  unravelling  a  kind  thought  — 
perchance  a  tearful  memory,  that  the  loving  ones  wove 
into  their  work,  as  they  sat  knitting  around  the  fireside. 
"Sweet  home"  —  it  is  long  since  I  have  known  thee, 
yet,  when  the  labor  is  done,  how  eagerly  will  I  clutch 
the  promises  the  words  "Sweet  home"  contain!  I  have 
some  studs  in  my  shirt.  They  are  made  of  Sarah's  hair 
and  they  tell  me  home  has  changed  somewhat  since  I 
knew  it.  I  asked  General  Stevens  the  other  day  if  he 
had  known  General  Garnett.  He  said,  "Yes.  Well?" 
and  almost  in  the  same  breath  added,  "He  had  such 
a  lovely  wife  who  died  in  my  territory."  They  two  have 
bidden  us  farewell,  and  grief  is  deadened  at  the  thought 
of  their  present  happiness.  I  look  again  into  the  box, 
and  I  see  there  gifts  from  Hunt  and  Thomas.  They 
have  been  good  brothers  to  me.  They  two  and  Wal- 
ter have  always  given  me  a  full,  hearty  brother's  love.  I 
am  not  an  humble  man,  and  am  proud  in  many  ways, 
but  there  is  naught  of  which  I  am  half  so  proud  as  my 
own  true  valued  friends.  As  I  think  of  them,  they  are 
not  few;  as  I  look  into  the  box,  I  see  this;  as  I  remember 
all  the  kind  acts  they  have  done  me,  I  feel  this;  and  when 
I  call  to  mind  the  goodness  of  the  Almighty,  I  know  it. 
Dear  mother,  dear  sisters,  dear  brothers,  I  can  hardly 


WAR   LETTERS  105 

keep  hack  the  tears  when  I  ask  you  to  accepi  the  thanks 
for  your  exceeding  love.  1  here  are  the  little  ones  tOOj 
and  they  are  never  forgotten.  I  must  udd  Walter's  hoy 
to  the  list  now  —  that  wondrous  hoy,  SO  different  from 
all  other  babies,  and  yet  so  like  all  others  in  the  strik- 
ing resemblance  he  bears  his  papa.  Tell  Cousin  Lou 
that  I  am  using  the  ink  and  paper  she  sent  me,  to  express 
to  all  my  friends  my  thanks.  Does  Cousin  Lou  think 
I  am  such  a  savage  —  so  delighting  in  secession  blood  — 
that  I  would  not  extend  my  hand  to  help  anyone  in  trouble  ? 
And  does  she  not  feel  sure  that  a  duty  would  become  a 
pleasure  when  it  would  be  to  assist  her  friends  ?  Let 
her  never  doubt  that  should  any  of  her  relatives  fall  into 
our  hands,  I  will  not  forget  either  my  duty  to  them  nor 
my  love  to  her.  The  gift  from  Uncle  John  I  felt,  and 
accept  with  that  pleasure  which  not  only  springs  from 
affection,  but  from  the  honest  respect  I  have  for  his 
fearlessness  of  character  in  vindication  of  the  right.  Thank 
Uncle  Phelps  and  Aunt  Maria.  They  have  never  faltered 
in  their  friendship  toward  me.  Thank  my  Aunts.  I 
trust  I  may  never  disgrace  them.  Thank  Mrs.  Tyler, 
Cousin  Lizzie  and  Aunt  Elizabeth.  Their  gifts  were 
timely  and  acceptable.  I  trust  I  have  omitted  none  of 
those  to  whom  I  am  indebted.  If  so  I  would  thank  them 
too,  and  in  conclusion  I  can  only  thank  God  who  has 
given  so  many  friends  —  friends  so  faithful,  so  kindly, 
and  so  true. 

Affec'y., 
Will  Lusk. 


io6  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Headquarters  2D  Brigade, 

Port  Royal  District,  Dec.   ioth,  1861. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  still  much  busied  —  still  find  it  difficult  to  cull 
even  a  few  moments  from  multifarious  duties,  even  to 
write  my  dear  mother.  I  would  like  much  to  have  a 
chance  to  write  you  a  good  long  letter,  yet  must  wait 
until  more  leisure  shall  fall  to  my  share.  We  have  the 
last  few  days  been  more  than  ever  busy,  owing  to  our 
formal  occupation  of  Beaufort,  where  we  are  now  pleas- 
antly living.  All  sorts  of  comforts  are  at  our  disposal. 
The  house  occupied  by  the  General  is  one  belonging  to 
Rev.  (I  think)  Mr.  Smith,  an  extremely  elegant  one.  The 
portrait  of  Bishop  Eliot  looks  down  benignantly  from 
over  the  mantel  while  I  write. 

I  wish  the  owners  were  back  in  their  old  homes,  not- 
withstanding they  have  relinquished  all  their  old  home 
luxuries  to  us.  I  do  not,  I  think,  possess  quite  enough 
of  the  Vandal  spirit,  for  anything  like  predative  warfare. 
I  have  spoken  of  the  extreme  pressure  of  duties,  and  this 
you  will  understand  when  I  tell  you  I  often  ride  thirty 
miles,  visiting  posts,  arranging  pickets,  and  in  the  examina- 
tion of  doubtful  points,  during  the  day,  besides  perform- 
ing many  other  duties,  such  as  may  fall  to  my  share.  I 
must  say  night  generally  finds  me  weary  and  after  evening 
work  is  done,  disinclined  even  to  write  you. 

All  things  seem  to  thrive  with  us  so  far.  What  we  still 
need  is  a  sufficiently  efficient  organization  to  enable  us  to 
strike  with  rapidity.  Here  we  are,  nearly  five  weeks  in  pos- 
session of  this  point,  and  as  yet  we  have  hardly  been  able 
to  get  the  stores  ashore,  which  we  originally  brought 
with  us.     And  all  this  time  too  we  read  in  the  newspapers 


WAR  LETTERS  107 

of  the  great  zeal  and  activity  displayed  by  Captain 


who  has  charge  of  these  things.  By  this  time  we  ought, 
considering  the  great  fear  that    filled  the  inhabitants  on 

our  first  landing,  to  have  been  able  ro  follow  up  our  first 
successes  by  a  series  of  determined  blows,  placing  the 
entire  State  at  our  disposal.  Still  we  are  young  at  war, 
and  cannot  hope  to  learn  all  these  things  at  once.  We 
have  however  done  something.  Immense  quantities  of 
cattle,  corn,  and  provisions  have  been  gathered  into  the 
commissary  stores,  Hilton  Head  has  been  securely  fortified, 
and  some  cotton  saved,  though  much  of  the  latter  has 
been  burned  by  the  South  Carolinians  to  prevent  its  falling 
into  our  hands.  I  think  Cousin  Louisa's  favorite,  Sam 
Lord,  is  in  the  Army  awaiting  us  on  the  mainland.  At 
least  I  heard  such  to  be  the  case  from  a  negro  driver  on 
one  of  the  plantations,  who  seemed  to  know  him.  The 
Pringles  lived  somewhere  in  this  neighborhood  too,  so  I 
am  brought  almost  face  to  face  with  old  friends. 

Believe  me, 

Very  Affec'y., 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

The  Occupation  of  Beaufort 
"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  353. 

"Scarcely  were  the  works  at  Hilton  Head  completed  when  General 
Stevens  was  ordered,  early  in  December,  to  occupy  Beaufort,  as  an  ad- 
vanced post  threatening  the  mainland,  and  affording  protection  to  the 
negroes  on  the  islands."  .  .  .  Beaufort  "was  a  place  of  fine  mansions 
and  houses,  almost  wholly  exempt  from  the  poorer  class,  the  seat  of 
wealth  and  refinement,  and  often  styled  the  Newport  of  the  South.  ..." 

When  the  appalling  news  of  Dupont's  victory  reached  Beaufort, 
"the  whole  white  population  fled  in  terror.  .  .  .  From  all  the  islands 
the  flight  of  the  planters  was  equally  hasty."  There  were  at  least  10,000 
negroes  left  on  the  different  islands,  who  "  flocked  into  Beaufort  on 
the  hegira  of  the  whites,  and  held  high  carnival  in  the  deserted  man- 
sions, smashing  doors,  mirrors  and  furniture,  and  appropriating  all  that 


10S  WILLIAM.   THOMPSON   LUSK 

took  their  fancy.  .  .  .  After  this  sack,  they  remained  at  home  upon  the 
plantations  and  revelled  in  unwonted  idleness  and  luxury,  feasting 
upon  the  corn,  cattle,  and  turkevs  of  their  fugitive  masters." 

Page  355.  "General  Stevens  .  .  .  reached  Beaufort  at  seven 
in  the  morning  on  December  u,1  landed,  and  threw  out  a  strong 
picket  on  the  main  road  across  the  island,  known  as  the  shell  road. 
.  .  .  The  next  morning  the  remainder  of  the  troops  landed,  and 
General  Stevens  advanced  across  the  island  on  the  shell  road  to  Port 
Roval  Ferry  on  the  Coosaw  River,  with  two  regiments  and  Ransom's 
guns.  The  rebel  cavalry,  falling  back  without  resistance,  crossed  the 
ferry.  ...  A  small,  square  ferryhouse  stood  at  the  end  of  each 
causeway,  and  the  one  on  the  further  side  had  been  strengthened  and 
converted  into  a  blockhouse,  and  from  it  the  enemy  fired  on  the  Union 
advance.  But  the  first  shell  from  the  3-inch  rifled  gun  went  crashing 
through  the  extempore  blockhouse,  and  sent  its  brave  defenders 
scampering  up  the  long  causeway.  Two  adventurous  soldiers  then 
swam  the  river  and  brought  back  a  boat  in  which  a  party  crossed 
over,  demolished  the  blockhouse,  and  returned  with  the  ferry  scow  and 
paraphernalia. 

"A  strong  picket  line  was  posted  along  the  river,  a  good  force  left 
in  support  at  a  cross-road  some  miles  back  on  the  shell  road,  and  the 
general  with  the  remainder  of  the  party  returned  to  Beaufort. 

"Gen.  Stevens  at  once  cleared  the  blacks  out  of  town,  and  estab- 
lished a  camp  in  the  suburbs  for  the  temporary  reception  of  refugees 
and  vagrant  negroes.  He  placed  the  troops  under  canvas  in  the  out- 
skirts, and  prohibited  their  entering  the  town  without  a  permit,  and 
strictly  forbade  all  plundering,  or  even  entering  the  empty  houses. 
Guards  wrere  posted  over  a  fine  public  library,  the  pride  of  the  town, 
which,  however,  had  been  thrown  about  in  utter  disorder;  patrols  were  kept 
scouring  the  streets,  and  the  strictest  order  and  discipline  were  enforced." 

"  War  of  the  Rebellion,"  Series  I,   Vol.  VI.,  p.  IQQ. 
Headquarters  District  of  Port  Royal, 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  December  10,  1861. 
Brigadier-General  Sherman, 

Commanding  Expeditionary  Corps: 

General:  Lieutenant  Ransom  and  the  section  of  Hamilton's  battery 
under  his  command  moved  at  3  o'clock  this  morning,  and  I  followed 
with  two  members  of  my  staff,  Acting  Aides-de-Camp  Lusk  and  Tay- 
lor, of,  respectively,  the  Highlanders  and  Fiftieth  Pennsylvania,  a  half 
hour  afterwards.  We  reached  the  ferry  at  daylight.  I  found,  how- 
ever, on  careful  examination,  that  the  Confederates  had  not  commenced 
the  erection  of  any  works  since  our  occupation  of  the  island.  After 
JDec.  9  would  conform  with  the  other  records. 


WAR    LETTERS  tog 

an  examination  of  the  country  adjoining  the  ferry,  especially  of  the  old 
furry  at  Seabrook,  a  mile  and  a  half  to  th<  ood  of  the  pn 

ferry,  I  determined  to  take  positive  possession  of  both  sides  of  'lie 
existing  ferry,  especially  as  an  effon  had  been  made  during  my 
absence  at  Seabrook,  to  lire  the  ferry  building  on  the  island  side. 
Lieutenant  Ransom,  bringing,  under  my  direction,  his  battery  into 
position  at  Stuart's  place,  fired  four  shots  and  dispersed  the  • 
pickets,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  Unnholts,  commanding  the  detach- 
ment at  the  ferry,  advanced  immediately  a  pickei  of  u  men  to  the 
ferry,  and  took  possession  of  both  hanks,  with  some  lour  boats. 
These  have  since  been  secured.  A  small  blockhouse  commanding  the 
ferry  on  the  main  was  dest  toyed.  ...  I  have,  with  the  assistance  of 
my  aides  and  scouting  parties,  examined  nearly  all  port  ions  of  the  island 
to-day.  The  conduct  of  the  troops  is  exemplary,  and  there  will  be 
considerable  additions  made  to  our  stock  of  quartermaster's  stores. 

I  am,  sir,  very  respectfully  yours,  most  obediently, 

Isaac  I.  Stevens, 

Brigadier-General  Commanding. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Dec.  20th,   1861. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Here  it  is  almost  Christmas,  but  there  is  no  hope  of 
dining  with  you  all  at  home  on  that  joyful  day.  Still  I 
will  try  to  make  myself  cheerful  here,  as  that  alone  is 
a  comfortable  philosophy.  Duties  are  a  bit  lighter 
to-day — the  result,  I  suppose,  of  great  exertion  for  a  few 
days  back.  I  received  last  night  three  letters  from  you 
and  one  from  Horace.  Let  me  thank  you,  dear  mother, 
very  much  for  the  photograph  you  sent  me.  It  gives  me 
much  gratification,  and  now  occupies  a  conspicuous  place 
in  my  room.  I  shall  look  impatiently  for  the  photographs 
likewise  of  my  sisters  and  the  little  boys.  It  would  do 
me  much  good  to  see  Hunt's  good-looking  face,  if  he  does 
feel  too  logy  to  favor  my  whims.  You  write  me  for  my 
photograph,  as  though  I  was  living  at  the  seat  of  civiliza- 
tion, and  the  abode  of  elegance.     Well,  to  be  sure,  I  am; 


no  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

but  then  everything  is  in  Southern  style,  which  does  not 
admit  of  such  vulgar  things  as  tradesmen,  much  less  of 
itinerant  shadow  catchers.  I  have  grown  immensely 
aristocratic  since  in  South  Carolina.  There  is  something 
in  the  air  that's  infectious.  A  few  more  weeks  here,  and 
I'll  be  able  to  stomach  even  a  Bostonian,  which  —  Oh! 
I  had  almost  forgotten  how  soon  Hall's  wedding  comes 
off;  the  25th  of  December,  Walter  writes  me.  Do  for 
Heaven's  sake  give  the  bride  something  from  me.  I 
enclose  $10.00  to  make  the  purchase.  There  is  nothing 
one  can  possibly  buy  down  here.  Pay-day  is  not  far  off 
again,  and  I  hope  to  be  able  to  remit  something  hand- 
some to  Uncle  Phelps,  which  may  make  him  cry,  "Oh, 
provident  youth!"  Until  then  Walter's  baby  must  go 
without  the  coral  and  bells  destined  him  by  his  affection- 
ate Uncle  William.  Tell  Horace  I  took  into  considera- 
tion the  request  he  made  with  regard  to  writing  a  few 
lines  to  Saml.  Lord,  assuring  him  of  the  welfare  of  Miss 
Mintzing,  concluded  to  do  it,  have  done  it,  and  think  the 
communication  will  reach  him. 

We  are  quite  active  here  at  Beaufort,  giving  the  good 
people  on  the  mainland  all  sorts  of  starts.  The  other 
night  a  young  Lieutenant  crossed  to  the  mainland  with 
a  small  party,  caught  six  of  their  pickets,  and  brought 
them  safely  back  as  prisoners.  A  captain  takes  a  boat, 
glides  along  the  shore,  gets  fired  upon,  returns  the  fire, 
and,  it  being  his  first  fight,  he  has  the  agreeable  sensation 
of  seeing  the  enemy  run.  The  fact  is,  though  the  people 
of  respectability  are  many  of  them  rampant,  the  poor 
whites  think  the  war  a  hard  thing,  which  they  do  not  like 
to  bear.  So  much  we  gathered  from  the  prisoners  taken 
the  other  night.  They  say  that  all  who  do  not  volunteer 
are  drafted  into  the  army,  and  the  difference  made  is, 


WAR  LETTERS  in 

that  volunteers  receive  $25.00  for  clothes,  and  are  treated 
with  respect,  whereas  drafted  men  gel  nothing  but  abusi  , 
There  lore  it  is  nol  difficult  to  see  how  popular  volunteering 
must  he  in  the  South. 

You  will  he  pleased  to  hear  that  my  friend  William 
Elliott  has  gained  perhaps  the  most  brilliant  reputation 
for  cool  courage  and  daring,  of  any  man  in  the  Army 
down  here.  He  is  a  rare  hero,  and  is  hound  to  make 
his  mark. 

Give  my  best  love  to  all,  dear  mother. 

AfFec'y., 

Will. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  356. 

"In  order  to  protect  the  negroes  and  keep  the  enemy  within  his  own 
lines,  General  Stevens  strongly  picketed  the  western  or  exposed  side  of 
Port  Royal  and  Ladies'  Islands,  guarding  all  the  landing-places,  and 
watching  the  Coosaw  and  Broad  rivers  for  twenty-five  miles.  Knowing 
the  difficulty  of  maintaining  so  long  and  exposed  a  line  of  outposts 
against  an  enterprising  enemy,  he  threw  him  on  the  defensive  by  the 
boldness  of  his  advanced  line,  and  by  a  succession  of  well-planned  and 
daring  raids  upon  his  pickets  on  the  opposite  shore.  Thus  Lieutenant 
Beniamin  F.  Porter,  of  the  8th  Michigan,  on  the  night  of  December  17th 
captured  a  picket  of  six  men  on  Chisholm's  Island,  and  on  several  occa- 
sions small  parties  were  thrown  across  the  Coosaw  in  boats,  the  enemy's 
pickets  were  driven  off,  and  the  buildings  from  which  they  fired  upon 
the  Union  pickets,  were  destroyed.  So  successfully  was  this  policy 
carried  out,  that  the  enemy  made  but  one  counter-attack  during  the  six 
months  that  General  Stevens  occupied  the -islands,  .  .  .  and  that  was 
repulsed  without  loss  on  our  side." 

•December  30th,  1S61. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  hardly  know  what  you  all  think  at  home  —  Hall  gets 
married,  and  I  send  no  word  of  congratulation;  Walter 
sends  me  a  beautiful  present,  and  I  return  no  word  of 
thanks;   Horace  writes  me  a  letter  full  of   kindness,  and 


ii2  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

it  lies  still  unanswered;  your  letters  come  with  such 
regularity,  and  yet  are  hardly  better  treated.  You  have 
been  waiting,  I  suppose  impatiently,  to  receive  some  news, 
but  I  have  been  obliged  to  be  silent,  for  I  have  been  quite 
ill  with  a  fever.  I  am  better  this  morning,  so  I  write  to 
set  your  mind  at  ease.  I  am  under  the  charge  now  of 
Dr.  McDonald,  who  is  excessively  kind  and  supplies  me 
with  every  comfort  a  sick  man  could  desire,  such  as 
clean  sheets,  cheerful  faces,  currant  jelly,  easy  chairs,  etc. 
I  do  not  feel  much  like  writing  I  must  say,  and,  after  I've 
told  you  I  am  now  getting  along  very  comfortably,  you 
will  excuse  me  from  making  this  letter  a  long  one. 

With  best  love, 

Very  Affec'y., 
W.  T.  Lusk. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade, 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Jan.  9th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

It  is  with  great  pleasure  I  am  able  to  write  of  my 
rapid  recovery  from  a  somewhat  severe  illness.  I  caught 
the  fever  prevalent  in  this  country,  and  lost  all  those 
pounds  of  flesh  of  which  I  have  boasted,  but  am  thank- 
ful to  be  again  restored  to  health,  if  not  to  full  strength, 
and  am  gaining  rapidly.  There  is  little  chance  of 
obtaining  a  leave  of  absence,  for,  though  delightful  as 
it  would  be  to  see  you  all  again,  it  is  not  well  to  look 
back  when  the  hand  is  once  put  to  the  plough.  You 
will  ere  this  have  received  an  account  of  our  New  Year's 
call  over  on  the  mainland  of  South  Carolina.  It  was 
very  successful,  but  I  was  unable  to  be  present,  as  exces- 
sive  exhaustion,    the   result   of  the  fever,    kept  me  con- 


WAR    U'/IThRS  113 

fined  in  bod.     The  weather  down  here  is  charming  now, 

the  sun  is  as  warm  as  summer.  I  think  of  you  suffering 
from  cold.  I  would  be  willing  to  exchange  the  warm 
sun  of  Beaufort  though,  for  a  couple  of  weeks  in  the  chilly 
North  where  there  arc  warm  hearts  ever  ready  to  welcome 
me.  I  am  going  to  enclose  to  you  a  copy  of  a  Secession 
letter  which  may  afford  you  some  amusement. 

I  have  not  received  either  my  trunk  or  sword  yet,  though 
they  undoubtedly  are  at  Hilton  Head,  but  the  express 
agency  is  a  slow  working  affair,  and  I  must  abide  their 
time  patiently.  Yesterday  was  the  anniversary  of  the 
battle  of  New  Orleans.  In  the  evening  the  General  had 
a  reception,  at  which  many  patriotic  speeches  were  made, 
and  a  general  feeling  of  jollity  prevailed.  There  is  little 
news  to  communicate.  Your  letters  come  regularly.  I 
have  received  Hunt's  photograph, which  is  capital.  I  hope 
gradually  to  get  the  likenesses  of  the  whole  family. 

There  is  at  present  as  far  as  we  can  learn,  a  general  feel- 
ing of  depression  among  the  South  Carolina  troops,  which 
possibly  may  eventually  develop  into  a  Union  sentiment. 
The  feeling  the  soldiers  express  is:  We  have  no  negroes 
to  fight  for,  while  the  slave-owners  have  all  taken  good 
care  to  retire  to  the  interior  of  the  State  where  they  can 
live  in  safety."  The  question  is  beginning  to  pass  among 
them,  "  Why  should  we  stay  here  to  be  shot,  when  those 
who  have  caused  the  war  have  run  away?"  This  is 
dangerous  talk,  and,  we  are  told,  officers  have  great  diffi- 
culty in  maintaining  the  organization  of  their  Regiments. 
At  least  these  are  stories  brought  by  the  negroes  who  are 
continually  escaping  to  our  lines,  and  the  unanimity  of 
their  reports  seems  to  lend  the  appearance  of  truth  to 
them.  The  fact  is,  the  frightful  effects  of  the  explosions 
of  the  1 1  inch  shell  which  some  of  our  gun-boats  carry, 


ii4  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

have  produced  a  great  panic  among  the  land  forces  of 
South  Carolina.  Negroes  from  Charleston  report  the 
city  in  a  great  fright,  the  inhabitants  making  preparation 
to  leave  at  the  sound  of  the  first  note  of  alarm.  I  hope 
we  may  catch  old  Tyler.1  It  would  do  me  a  deal  of  good 
to  see  the  traitor  sent  North  to  be  dealt  with  properly. 
There  is  a  strong  contrast  between  the  treatment  of  our 
prisoners,  and  that  received  by  the  unfortunates  who  fall 
into  the  hands  of  the  "chivalry."  The  prisoners  we  have 
here  are  certainly  as  well  treated  if  not  better  than  our  own 
soldiers.  As  I  see  them,  on  passing  their  place  of  con- 
finement, with  their  legs  hanging  out  of  the  windows, 
smoking  their  pipes,  lolling  about,  enjoying  fires  when  it 
is  chilly,  I  cannot  but  think  of  a  poor  fellow  named  Buck, 
a  German  in  my  company  and  a  capital  fellow,  who 
was  captured  at  Bull  Run  and  taken  prisoner  to  Rich- 
mond. Once  he  ventured  to  put  his  head  out  of  his 
prison  window,  and  in  an  instant  the  guard  shot  him 
dead.  I  remembered  too  an  amiable  practice  of  the 
chivalrous  youth  of  Richmond,  who,  when  drunk,  were 
in  the  habit  of  discharging  their  pieces  from  below, 
sending  the  bullets  through  the  floor  of  the  prison. 
This  piece  of  pleasantry  they  termed  "tickling  the  legs  of 
the  Yankees!"  Well,  we  are  not  barbarians,  and  the 
other  day  a  poor  fellow  whom  we  took  prisoner  at 
the  battle  of  the  Coosaw,  as  he  lay  grievously  wounded,  but 
receiving  every  kindness  and  attention  at  our  hands, 
said:  "Ah,  there's  a  mistake  somewhere.  We  think  you 
come  here  to  murder,  and  burn  and  destroy."  It  will 
take  time,  but  we  believe  by  making  ourselves  dreaded 
in  battle,  but  using  kindness  to  all  who  fall  into  our 
power,  even  South  Carolina  may  learn  the  lesson  that 
there  is  a  mistake  somewhere. 

1  John  Tyler. 


WAR   LETTERS  115 

There,    I    think    I    have   written    a    long    letter.      With 

much  love  to  all,  I  remain, 

Your  aitec.  son, 

Will. 

Action  at  Port  ROYAL  Ferry,  Jan.   i,   1862 
This  was  the  "New  Year's  call  "  mentioned  in  the  preceding  letter. 
"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  (/.  358. 

"  Impressed  with  the  importance  of  dislodging  the  enemy  and  keeping 
the  river  open,  Gen.  Stevens  laid  before  Gen.  Sherman  a  plan  to  that 
end,  which  the  latter  promptly  approved.  It  was  simply  to  throw  a 
sufficient  force  across  the  river  several  miles  helow  the  ferry,  advance- 
up  the  left  hank,  beat  any  force  that  might  be  found  covering  the 
work,  and  take  it  in  the  rear.  Three  light-draught  gunboats  were 
to  cooperate  in  the  movement.  .  .  .  Nearly  every  plantation  on 
these  islands  was  supplied  with  large  flatboats,  used  chiefly  for  the 
transportation  of  cotton.  Ever  since  his  occupation  General  Stevens 
had  been  quietly  collecting  these  scows  at  Beaufort,  with  a  view  to 
using  them  in  future  operations." 

Page  360.  "At  one  a.m.  New  Year's  morning  the  embarkation 
commenced." 

Page  362.  "At  1.30  p.  m.  Gen.  Stevens  formed  his  order  of  march, 
and  moved  forward  for  the  fort,  marching  parallel  to  the  river."  The 
movement  ended  by  a  complete  victory,  and  the  enemy  made  a  precipi- 
tate retreat. 

Page  366.  "This  action  was  almost  the  first  Union  success  achieved 
by  the  army  since  the  disaster  of  Bull  Run,  and  the  thanks  of  the  gov- 
ernment were  extended  in  general  orders  to  Gen.  Stevens  and  his 
command." 

Page  367.  "After  the  action  of  Port  Royal  Ferry,  General  Stevens 
continued  to  hold  Beaufort  and  the  neighboring  islands  for  five  months, 
without  the  occurrence  of  any  military  event  of  importance,  chiefly 
occupied  in  thoroughly  drilling  and  disciplining  his  troops." 

Col.  Addison  Farnsworth   made    Colonel  of  the  Highlanders. 
*'  The  ygth  Highlanders,   p.   1 16. 

"On  the  17th,"  (Tan.)  "Col.  Addison  Farnsworth  of  Albanv,  N.  Y., 
arrived  and  assumed  command  of  the  regiment  ...  a  veteran  of  the 
Mexican  war.  .  .  ." 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  4.26. 

"Col.  Farnsworth  .  .  .  joined  his  regiment  at  Beaufort,  but  was 
absent  on  leave  during  the  James  Island  campaign,  at  the  close  of  which 
he  returned  to  it." 


n6  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Jan.   19th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  so  accustomed  to  commence  all  documents  in 
an  official  form,  that  even  in  a  letter  to  you  I  find  myself 
employing  the  customary  heading.  I  regret  very  much 
that  this  letter  will  not  reach  you  by  the  "Atlantic,"  but 
it  is  too  late  —  the  steamer  sailed  a  day  sooner  than  at 
first  reported.  But  I  trust  Walter  has  told  you  I  am  well, 
that  Uncle  Phelps  has  reported  my  purchase  of  a  new 
horse,  and  that  Capt.  Wm.  Elliott,  who  has  returned 
home  with  your  address  in  his  pocket,  will  relieve  your 
mind  of  all  anxiety  as  regards  the  effect  of  my  late  illness. 
But  tell  Walter  that  all  my  fretting  and  fuming  on  two 
points  was  in  vain.  After  writing  as  I  did  about  the 
sword,  I  went  to  the  express  office  to  make  a  last  inquiry. 
The  office  was  closed,  so  I  despatched  my  letter.  On 
going  to  dinner  a  few  hours  later,  one  of  the  officers  spoke 
up:  "By  the  way,  there's  a  package  for  you  at  the  express 
office,  about  three  feet  long  and  four  or  five  inches  deep." 
My  sword  after  a  long  delay  at  Fortress  Monroe,  at  last 
had  come.  I  am  charmed  at  Walter's  forethought,  and 
I  promise  to  wear  it  with  double  pleasure,  for  the  great 
love  we  bear  each  other. 

Then  the  matter  of  the  79th  officers  sent  out  with  com- 
missions from  Gov.  Morgan,  although  not  having  a  pre- 
text of  a  claim  for  recognition  —  well,  my  efforts,  some- 
what Quixotic,  and  decidedly  mutinous  in  character, 
were  of  no  avail.  I  had  set  my  heart  on  seeing  Wm. 
Elliott  in  a  position  which  every  man  who  knows  him, 
acknowledges  to  be  his  due.  The  Lieut.-Colonelcy  was 
vacant,  the  Colonelcy  too;    one  of  these  offices  the  Gen- 


WAR   LETTERS  117 

eral  declared  he  should  have,  but  the  Governor  of  Mew- 
York  had  to  attend  to  his  friends  and  so  \Villi;im  lor.t  his 
promotion.  I  was  indignant,  outraged.  I  tried  to  gel 
all  the  officers  to  resign,  sooner  than  submit  to  imposition. 
Luckily  for  me, the  nun  I  sought  to  influence  were"  ( lanny 
Scotch"  —  the  promotion  of  Elliott  had  no  material  in- 
terest to  them.  They  could  say  that  it  was  a  shame,  hut 
losing  the  liberal  pay  the  U.  S.  Government  allows,  . 
too  much  of  a  stretch  upon  their  sense  of  justice,  so  f 
was  saved  a  deal  of  foolishness  which  must  have  ended 
disastrously.  Necessarily  in  the  army  a  great  amount  of 
temporary  injustice  is  done,  but  in  the  long  run  merit 
will  rise.  And  so  I  satisfy  myself  that  Wm.  Elliott  will 
yet  be  a  Colonel  or  something  more,  but  he  must  bide 
his  time.  I  meant  to  have  written  ever  so  much  more, 
but  just  hearing  the  "  Baltic  "  sails  directly,  I  halt  abruptly, 
hoping  this  may  catch  her. 

Love  to  all. 
Affectionately, 

Will. 


"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens"   Vol.  II,  p.  377. 

Around  Beaufort  "this  intrepid  officer"  (Captain  Elliott,  of  the 
Highlanders),  "made  trip  after  trip  within  the  enemy's  lines,  explored 
the  whole  region,  and  examined  every  bridge  between  the  Coosawhatchie 
and  the  Ashepoo,  located  the  enemy's  posts,  ascertained  their  forces, 
intrenchments,  guns,  etc.,  and  gleaned  much  information  in  regard  to  the 
roads,  approaches,  and  country.  .  .  .  The  service  .  .  .  was  so  well 
performed  that  it  is  doubtful  if  the  Confederate  commander  himself 
was  much  better  informed  as  to  the  state  of  things  within  his  lines 
than  was  his  opponent." 

"  The  7Qtb  Highlanders,"  p.  4.Q3. 

Captain  William  Elliott  became  Major  of  the  Highlanders  May  12th, 
1862;  he  was  severely  wounded  at  Chantilly,  Sept.  1st,  1862. 


n8  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Jan.  26th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Another  Sunday  has  come  around,  time  slips  quietly 
by  —  still  nothing  striking  has  taken  place.  We  are  all 
impatiently  awaiting  the  advent  of  some  steamer,  bring- 
ing us  news  from  the  Burnside  Expedition.  Is  our  coun- 
try really  so  prolific  in  great  Commanders  ?  Is  there  a 
Napoleon  for  each  one  of  the  dozen  armies  that  compose 
the  anaconda  fold  ?  Ay,  ay,  it  would  be  a  sad  disappoint- 
ment if  the  fold  should  happen  to  snap  somewhere! 
Things  look  like  action  down  here,  and  that  not  long 
hence.  We  have  been  gathering  our  troops  gradually 
on  the  islands  about  the  mouth  of  the  Savannah  river. 
Thither  have  gone  our  Connecticut  friends,  and  yester- 
day three  more  steamers,  loaded,  took  the  remainder  of 
Gen.  Wright's  Brigade  with  them.  We  are  left  here  quite 
unnoticed  on  Port  Royal  Island,  in  seeming  safety,  though 
there  are  many  troops  around  us.  An  army,  boasting 
much,  awaits  us  on  the  mainland,  but  an  army  having 
still  a  wholesome  dread  of  Yankees.  I  made  them  a 
sort  of  visit  the  other  night  (25th),  passing  up  Hospa 
Creek  in  a  light  canoe,  hidden  by  the  darkness  and  the 
long  grass  of  the  marshes.  A  negro  guide  paddled  so 
lightly  that,  as  we  glided  along,  one  might  have  heard 
the  dropping  of  a  pin.  It  was  fine  sport  and  as  we  passed 
close  by  the  enemy's  pickets  we  would  place  our  thumbs 
to  our  noses,  and  gracefully  wave  our  fingers  toward  the 
unsuspecting  souls.  This  was  by  no  means  vulgarly  in- 
tended, but  as  we  could  not  speak,  we  thus  symbolically 
expressed  the  thoughts  that  rose  in  our  bosoms.  We 
pushed  on  until  coming  to  a  point  where  a  stream  like  a 
mere  thread  lay  before  us.  Here  we  paused,  for  this  was 
a  stream  we  wished   to  examine.     At  the  mouth  of  the 


WAR    LETTERS  119 

stream  stood  the  sentries  of  the  enemy.  We  could  hear 
their  voiees  talking.  We  lay  under  the  river  grass,  watch- 
ing. Soon  a  boat  pushed  across  the  little  stream  to  the 
opposite  shore.  We  shoved  our  canoe  far  into  the  marsh, 
and  lay  there  concealed.  I  hen  all  was  still  and  we 
thought  it.  time  to  return,  so  hack  we  went,  and  returned 
home  unnoticed  and  in  safety.  Such  little  excursions  give 
a  zest  to  the  dulness  of  camp.  I  have  not  yet  been  able 
to  give  Miss  Mint/ing's  letter  to  any  one  who  could  send 
it  to  her  friends,  yet  I  hope  such  an  opportunity  will 
speedily  come.     What  is  Tom  Reynolds  now  doing? 

The  paymaster  has  not  visited  us  this  long  time,  and 
I  have  but  fifty  cents  in  my  pocket.  However,  when  one 
has  nothing  to  spend,  he  feels  quite  as  happy  down  here, 
as  money  can  buy  but  few  luxuries  in  camp.  We  don't 
starve  though.  Secession  cows  give  us  milk,  speculators 
bring  us  butter,  and  the  negroes  sell  us  chickens. 

Jan.  27th.  We  find  all  sorts  of  communication  with 
home  fairly  cut  off.  Gen.  Sherman  has  been  long  plan- 
ning some  expedition  against  Fort  Pulaski.  At  length  it 
has  started  from  Hilton  Head,  and  Gen.  Sherman,  with 
his  characteristic  caution  has  closed  all  communication, 
fearful  that  otherwise,  through  letter,  or  in  some  other 
manner  his  plans  might  be  revealed.  I  trust  when  the 
embargo  is  raised,  the  same  steamer  that  carries  this  to 
you,  will  bear  accounts  of  some  new  success  from  our 
expedition. 

I  am  sorry  Uncle  Phelps  is  disappointed  that  he  did 
not  have  the  pleasure  of  reading  my  name  in  print.  \\  hv, 
I  read  the  other  day  (in  the  Herald),  how7  I  commanded 
an  enterprise  at  which  I  was  not  even  present.  So  much 
for  newspaper  glory!  After  Bull  Run,  numbers  who  never 
left  New-York,  had  themselves  puffed  for  gallant  conduct 


120  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

by  a  mercenary  press.  Pooh!  Mother,  your  reputation 
outside  the  circle  of  those  who  can  see,  is  not  worth  the 
words  that  picture  it.  I  have  to  laugh  when  I  think  of 
Brig. -Gen.  —  of  the  Irish  Brigade,  and  the  af- 
frighted Captain  beating  a  quick  retreat  from  Bull  Run, 
swearing  that  the  South  had  fought  well  and  deserved 
its  independence  —  that  it  was  useless  to  resist  a  free 
people,  and  the  sooner  we  recognize  the  South  the  better. 

Since  then has  become  a  great  hero,  by  the 

mighty  powers  of  quackery. 

Well,  dear  Mother,  Good-bye. 

Yours  affectionately, 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Feb.  6th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

...  I  have  received  the  little  prayer-book  from  Nannie 
Day  and  thank  the  dear  soul  many  times  for  a  remem- 
brance that  by  no  means  is  needless  to  a  soldier.  You 
may  tell  her  that  I  have  several  times  carried  it  in  my 
pocket,  when  circumstances  have  been  such  as  to  prevent 
my  using  the  larger  book  which  was  packed  in  my  trunk. 
I  must  not  forget  now  either,  Tom's  photograph  which  I 
display  with  pride  along  with  those  of  Hunt,  Uncle  John, 
and  my  own  mother.  To-day  the  "  Ellwood  Walter  " 
arrived  at  Beaufort  where  the  Connecticut  battery  is  to 
be  landed.  I  went  on  board  immediately,  hoping,  notwith- 
standing his  illness,  Captain  Rockwell  might  be  aboard, 
but  learned  he  would  in  all  likelihood  arrive  by  the  next 
steamer.  The  "Atlantic"  is  looked  for  now  hourly,  and  I 
trust  he  may  be  aboard.  I  was  not  a  little  disappointed  to 
learn  from  the  officers  of  the  battery,  that  not  a  man 


WAR   LETTERS  121 

of  them  all,  except  the  Captain,  had  ever  fired  a  gun 
(cannon)  in  his  life,  for  I  had  boasted  much  "I  the  Con- 
necticut battery  which  was  to  be  sent  to  Port  Royal. 
Any  time  the  good  Governor  of  Connecticut,  or  the  sons 

of  the  worthy  state,  see  fit  to  honor  me,  I  am  open  to 
anything  like  promotion.  So  goes  the  world.  I  have 
only  held  as  a  secure  and  settled  thing,  my  position  as 
Captain  about  three  weeks,  when  I  talk  of  something 
better.  I  will  confess  to  you  now,  that  though,  since- 
deserted  by  Lieut,  (now  Captain)  Sam  Elliott,1  I  have 
held  command  of  a  company  of  Highlanders,  and  though 
I  had  been  led  to  suppose  for  a  time  (on  my  first  being 
transferred  to  the  Staff)  I  held  it  as  Captain,  under  which 
supposition  I  wrote  you,  stating  the  same,  my  real  title 
to  the  rank  of  Captain  has  only  dated  since  the  short  time 
I  have  mentioned.  But  having  made  the  mistake  once, 
there  was  nothing  left  for  me  to  do  but  to  try  to  get  a 
Captaincy  as  soon  as  possible,  and  now  that  I  have  re- 
ceived the  congratulations  of  the  Regiment  and  Brigade, 
I  think  I  may  mention  the  matter  candidly.  Dear  old 
Walter,  I  shall  be  glad  to  hear  from  him.  I  have  lately 
written  Hall,  and  trust  he  will  forget  my  neglect  in  times 
past.  There  is  going  to  be  a  "Nigger  shout"  to-night, 
which  a  number  of  the  officers  are  going  to  attend.  As 
I  have  no  definite  idea  of  the  character  of  the  performance 
except  that  it  is  a  relic  of  native  African  barbarism,  I 
shall  attempt  no  description.  Give  my  best  love  to  all 
my  dear  friends  at  home.  I  do  not  forget  their  kind 
words,  or  wishes,  though  I  do  not  often  mention  them. 

Your  Affec.  Son, 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

1  Lieutenant    Samuel  R.    Elliott  resigned   from  the   79th  Highlanders   Sept.,  1S61. 
He  subsequently  served  as  Surgeon  in  other  regiments,  up  to  the  close  of  the  war. 


122  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  Feb.  16th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Pleasant  land  of  South  Carolina!  Roses  blooming 
in  the  gardens,  mocking  birds  whistling  sweet  notes 
in  the  forests,  trees  green  and  beautiful  as  dense  foliage 
can  make  them  —  quite  different  from  the  cold  winter 
you  are  spending — but  Ugh,  how  the  wind  does  blow  here 
to-night  though!  It  makes  .little  difference  to  us 
here  in  the  house,  for  the  bright  wood-fire  blazes  cheer- 
fully, and  around  it  is  gathered  by  no  means  a  dejected 
party  smoking  cigars,  and  good-naturedly  cursing  the 
slowness  of  the  campaign.  Out  of  door,  the  pickets 
perhaps,  blowing  their  fingers,  may  be  using  deeper  ex- 
pressions, and  may  be  having  different  motives  for  wishing 
the  war  to  wag  along  a  little  faster.  Would  that  our 
little  General  with  his  big  shaggy  head,  were  in  com- 
mand! I  think  he  would  set  them  dancing  over  on  the 
mainland  to  the  merry  old  tune  of  Malbrook,  but  Sher- 
man is  slow  and  cautious,  and  the  biggest  figure  he  allows 
us  to  execute  is  a  sort  of  dos-a-dos  performance  at  best. 

So  our  little  General,  with  nothing  better  to  do,  con- 
tents himself  with  having  the  best  managed  Brigade  in 
the  Command,  lectures  us  young  men  occasionally  on 
Strategy,  and  at  times,  in  sheer  despair,  reads  novels 
with  the  same  energy  and  vigor  with  which  he  conducts 
his  operation  on  the  battlefield.  He  is,  indeed,  a  prodig- 
ious little  man,  and  it  would  rejoice  many  a  one,  were  he 
to  receive  a  larger,  and  more  splendid  field  of  action  — 
such  a  one  as  his  talents  demand. 

Dear,  dear!  I  am  impatient  to  hear  from  home,  but 
our  transport  vessels  are  needed  elsewhere,  and  we  have 
no  idea  when  we  are  to  receive  another  mail. 


Brigadier-General   Isaac    I.  Stevens 


WAR    LETTERS  123 

I    see   Captain   -   quite    often.      He    is    like 

Sherman,    very    slow.      I     try    to    give    him    some    hints 

about  flying  around   more,  and    1  trust   experience  will 
teach  him   the  necessary  lesson. 

By-the-hy,  who  is  George  Martin,  now  Ouarter- 
master  of  the  79th  Regiment,  who  t.-ilks  ;il>out  "Uncle 
Lusk"  and  "Uncle  Olmstead  "  and  "lim  le  i  hompson 
and  "Henry  G.,"  etc?  He  heard  me  say  I  w;is  from 
Connecticut  —  "What,  you  don't  belong  to  the  Enfield 
Lusks?"  I  explained  my  relationship.  .  .  .  Wishing 
to  ascertain  the  relationship  existing  between  us,  I  found 
he  was  born  somewhere  in  SufHeld,  and  that  his  using 
the  title  of  "Uncle"  was  merely  intended  to  show  that 
he  was  accustomed  to  mingle  familiarly  in  the  Aristo- 
cratic Circles  of  Enfield.  Indeed  we  kept  up  quite  a 
running  talk  about  Enfield.  While  talking  rapidly  upon 
the  topics  suggesting  themselves,  on  finding  our  "relation- 
ship," we  were  somewhat  interrupted  by  a  loud  haw- 
haw  from  a  bed  in  the  corner  of  the  room.  Then  a  voice, 
deep  and  gruff,  cried :  "Haw-haw!  Oh  Lord,  haw-haw! 
One  would  think  there  were  no  people  in  the  world 
except  those  that  come  from  Connecticut,  haw-haw!" 
This  proceeded  from  a  drunken  Captain,  who  was  so 
amused  at  his  own  wit,  that  he  continued  to  laugh, 
and  roll,  and  shake  his  fat  sides  until  the  room  was  in  a 
roar,  and  as  I  left,  way  down  the  street  you  could  hear 
the  same  "haw-haw"  from  the  jolly  drunken  Captain. 

Love  to  all. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 


124  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,'"    Vol.  II,  p.  367. 

While  at  Beaufort,  General  Stevens's  "attention,  moreover,  was  largely 
taken  up  with  other  matters,  not  military.  .  .  .  He  caused  the  public 
library  .  .  .  with  several  fine  private  libraries  added  to  it,  to  be  put  in 
order,  restored  to  the  shelves  and  catalogued,  and  thrown  open  for  the  use 
of  the  troops.  .  .  .  He  intended  that  the  library,  thus  preserved,  should 
be  cared  for  and  kept  in  the  town  where  it  belonged,  and  restored  to  the 
inhabitants  when  they  resumed  their  allegiance  and  returned  to  their 
homes.  But  one  day  the  treasury  agent,  Colonel  William  H.  Reynolds, 
presented  himself,  and  demanded  the  books  as  captured  rebel  property, 
to  be  sold  for  the  benefit  of  the  government,  a  demand  which  General 
Stevens  indignantly  and  peremptorily  rejected."  General  Stevens  pro- 
tested to  General  Sherman,  but  the  latter  "was  unwilling  to  take  such 
a  responsibility  and  there  was  no  alternative  but  to  give  up  the  books." 

Page  368.  General  Stevens  heartily  approved  taking  measures  to 
induce  the  negroes  to  plant  crops,  but  he  seriously  doubted  the  propriety 
of  teaching  them  the  elementary  branches,  "pointing  out  that  to  educate 
the  blacks  and  raise  hopes  of  freedom  in  their  breast  would  make  their 
condition  doubly  hard  in  case,  on  the  suppression  of  the  rebellion,  they 
had  to  return  to  their  masters." 

Page  375.  "At  this  time"  (March,  1862)  "General  Stevens  wrote 
Professor  Bache  a  memoir  to  be  laid  before  the  President,  giving  his  views 
of  the  military  policy  and  operations  to  be  undertaken.  Dr.  Lusk, 
who,  as  his  aide,  copied  the  letter  from  the  rough  draft,  declares  that  he 
urged  the  very  movements  that  were  afterward  adopted,  and  was  greatly 
impressed  with  the  ability  and  prophetic  foresight  of  the  memoir.1  Un- 
fortunately, no  copy  of  it  has  been  found." 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  March  2d,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

In  the  short  letter  I  wrote  you  last  week,  I  mentioned 
that  I  would  not  encourage  your  visiting  Beaufort,  and 
will  now  state  my  reasons  more  at  length.  In  the  first 
place,  we  have  here  some  four  thousand  men  on  the  island, 
of  whom  the  best  are  long  separated  from  the  refining 
influence  of  home,  and,  in  consequence,  the  two  or  three 
ladies  who  are  visiting  here  are  subject  to  a  deal  of  coarse 
remark,  to  which  I  would  not  be  willing  that  any  woman 
should  be  subjected,  where  it  lay  in  my  power  to  prevent. 

1  Dr.  Lusk  often  in  conversation  reiterated  this  statement. 


WAR    LETTERS  125 

Again,  it  would  be  quite  impossible  to  provide  you  with 
such  accommodations  as  would  enable  you  to  spend  a 
few  days  without  more  suffering  than  you  could  well  hear. 
It  is  all  well  for  Quartermasters,  who  are  not  liable  to   he 

removed  from  this  Post  at  a  moment's  notice,  to  provide 
themselves  with  bedding  and  comforts  from  the  North, 

suitable  for  lady  friends,  but  this  cannot  he  the  case 
with  those  of  us  who  are  liable  to  an  order  to  move  at 
any  moment,  and  to  whom  only  a  retrain  number  of 
lbs.  of  baggage  is  allowed.  We  are  not,  moreover,  80 
absolutely  secure  from  the  probability  of  an  attack,  that 
it  is  with  perfect  safety  a  lady  may  venture  here.  Should 
an  attack  take  place,  there  would  be  a  double  duty  to 
perform,  the  one  to  place  my  mother  in  security,  and 
at  the  same  time  to  assist  in  providing  for  the  safety 
of  the  Brigade.  I  fear  it  would  be  hard  to  combine  the 
two.  However,  I  will  say  this,  a  hotel  is  soon  to  be 
opened  here.  If  it  has  the  effect  to  draw  many  lady 
visitors  to  Beaufort,  I  would  not  then  say  nay  to  your 
coming,  but  I  imagine  it  will  become  more  the  resort 
of  topers  than  of  fine  ladies.  Well,  dear  mother,  let  us 
trust  that  there  will  soon  be  some  way  opened  to  us 
by  which  we  may  meet  happily. 

I  tell  you  what  I  think  would  be  a  capital  idea  though  — 
that  is  for  Hunt  or  Walter,  or  both,  to  make  me  a  flying 
visit  one  of  these  days.   I  think  that  would  really  be  capital. 

I  was  round  to  dine  with  Alfred  Rockwell  to-day.  He 
is  certainly  a  real  good  fellow,  and  if  I  have  not  given 
him  the  credit  for  rapidity  of  action,  he  certainly  is  doing 
what  he  attempts  exceedingly  well.  His  whole  soul  is 
absorbed  in  his  battery,  and  he  makes  a  better  officer 
every  day.  I  wrote  Horace  a  few  days  ago,  and  trust  he 
may  receive  my  letter.     We  are  getting,  in  indirect  ways, 


i26  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

glorious  news  from  the  North  concerning  the  capture 
of  Fort  Donelson,  and  are  now  impatiently  awaiting 
the  arrival  of  a  steamer  with  particulars.  We  can  hardly 
credit  a  report  now  current,  regarding  a  convention  to  be 
called  by  the  Governor  of  Tennessee  to  repeal  the 
Secession  Ordinance  in  that  State.  Our  latest  dates  are 
Feb.  16th,  and  here  it  is  the  2d  of  March. 

There  was  quite  a  funny  affair  happened  last  night 
among  the  pickets.  Fresh  meat  has  long  been  scarce  in 
the  Command,  and  we  are  forced  to  await  the  arrival  of 
a  steamer  from  the  North  before  we  can  indulge  in  such 
a  luxury.  This  morning,  among  the  "Reports"  sent 
in  to  these  Headquarters  from  the  "Advanced  Posts," 
was  one  containing  the  following  remarkable  account: 
That  about  1  o'clock  last  night,  the  pickets  guarding  a 
causeway  were  startled  by  the  steady  tramp  of  advanc- 
ing footsteps.  On  looking  in  the  direction  whence  the 
sound  came,  they  saw  —  Oh  wonderful!  a  cow  march- 
ing steadily  toward  them,  a  secessionist  grasping  her 
by  the  tail,  and  five  men  following  in  single  file,  protected 
from  harm  by  the  flanks  of  this  redoubtable  cow.  Our 
pickets,  instead  of  running,  fired  upon  the  foe.  The  cow 
fell  groaning  to  the  earth,  and  the  secessionists  fled  and 
were  seen  no  more.  I  hardly  need  add,  that  those  pickets 
had  fresh  meat  for  breakfast,  and  though  the  laws  against 
killing  cattle  are  very  stringent,  in  such  a  case  nothing 
could  be  said.  Capt.  Elliott  has  not  yet  arrived,  so  I 
am  not  yet  in  receipt  of  the  wine  Uncle  Phelps  has  been 
kind  enough  to  send  me.  Still  I  thank  him  very  much 
for  his  kind   remembrance. 

It  is  getting  late,  so  many  kisses,  mother,  and  good- 
night. T  rr     > 

to  1  am  very  attec  y., 

W.  T.  Lusk. 


WAR   LETTERS  127 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  March  10th,  1862. 

My  dearest  Mother: 

The  "Atlantic"  brought  Wm.  Elliott  who  had  much  to 

tell  me  of  you  all,  and  I  gladly  learned  of  your  happiness 
and  good  health.  The  letters  with  the  latest  news  and 
Lilly's  c art e-de-vi site,  likewise  came  t<>  hand.  I  must 
thank  Lilly  a  thousand  times  for  having  undergone  the 
ordeal  of  being  photographed  for  my  sake.  Only  let 
Molly  go  and  do  likewise.  As  for  the  little  boys,  I  fear 
their  moustaches  will  grow  before  their  mother  will  con- 
sider them  lovely  enough  for  the  occasion.  Pshaw!  As 
though  a  photograph  could  represent  a  red  nose  or  a  cold 
in  the  head! 

Well,  I  thank  Uncle  Phelps  most  heartily  for  the  wine 
he  sent  me,  which  has  been  much  commended  by  judges 
of  the  article.  Aunt  Maria's  crackers  were  a  welcome 
addition  to  our  mess  for  which  I  am  this  month  acting 
as  caterer. 

I  received  a  long,  long  letter  from  Sam  Elliott,  for  which 
I  am  most  grateful.  Tell  him,  if  I  do  not  answer  as 
speedily  as  it  deserves,  he  will  nevertheless  always  re- 
member how  much  I  prize  his  friendship.  I  am  very 
glad  you  did  not  accompany  "the  excellent  females" 
whom  the  "Atlantic"  brought  hither  for  the  purpose 
of  regenerating  the  negro  race.  They  have  been  having 
a  most  royal  time  of  it  I  assure  you.  Some  of  the  ladies 
are  from  Boston,  and  do  not  wish  to  associate  with 
ladies  from  New- York.  Indeed,  some  of  the  Boston  ladies 
have  been  creditably  informed  that  the  New- York  dele- 
gation is  composed  of  nothing  better  than  milliners. 
The  New- York  ladies   say  that    they   have    volunteered 


i28  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

their  services  while  the  philanthropic  Boston  women 
are  receiving  $20.00  a  month  —  in  fact  are  paid  wages 
for  their  charity.  And  so  the  battle  rages  high.  In  fact 
the  most  of  the  combatants  are  heartily  sick  of  it. 
They  supposed  they  were  coming  here  to  occupy  .the. 
superb  mansions  of  the  wealthiest  of  Southern  Planters  — 
such  mansions  as  you  read  of  in  Mrs.  Caroline  Lee  Hentz's 
picture  of  Southern  life.  They  have  come,  however,  and 
found  an  old-fashioned  town  with  crumbling  old-fashioned 
houses,  all  run  to  waste  in  piazza  —  very  picturesque  to 
look  at  to  my  eyes  —  "but  then  they  are  so  different," 
the  ladies  say,  "to  what  we  are  accustomed  about 
Boston."  With  the  men  of  the  Association  there  has  been 
no  little  fun.  They  are  strictly  non-combatants,  and  have 
indeed  a  sort  of  superior  feeling  to  those  who  are  brutally 
employed  in  bearing  arms.  For  this  they  have  been 
punished  by  being  made  the  recipients  of  the  most  mar- 
vellous "canards"  imaginable.  They  are  kept  in  a 
continual  state  of  alarm  by  reports  of  a  speedy  attack 
from  overwhelming  forces.  They  are  comforted  by  the 
coolest  assurances  that  the  enemy  would  in  no  case  regard 
them  as  prisoners  of  war,  but  would  hang  them  without 
compunction  to  the  nearest  tree. 

But  I  have  told  scandal  enough.  We  were  reviewed 
a  week  ago  by  Gen.  Sherman.  Our  brigade  made  a 
fine  appearance,  and  I  am  glad  to  particularize  our  Conn. 
Battery  which  really  reflected  very  creditably  on  its  cap- 
tain.    I    met    a   young   fellow    a   few   days    ago,    named 

,  who  says  he  knew  you  and  Lilly  when  you 

were  at  the  Wauregan  Hotel.  I  believe  he  had  a  class 
in  Sunday-school  then,  though  somewhat  anxious  to  play 
the  fast  boy  now.  Well,  it  seems  we  are  making  rapid 
progress  in  the  war,  and  who  knows  but  that  I  may  be 


WAR    LETTERS  129 

home  by  next  4th  of   July,  instructing   Mary's  hoys  in 
firing  oft*  crackers  and  other  noisy  nuisances  incident  to 
the  occasion. 
Good-bye,  my  dear,  darling  Mother.     Love  to  you  and 

all  of  my  friends,  to  sisters  and  the  little  children.     You 
must  report  progress  too  about  Walter's  boy. 

By-the-by,  you  addressed  me  some  time  ago  in  a  most 
mysterious  manner.  Reading  over  the  letter  lately,  I  have 
concluded  to  answer  with  equal  mystery—  "Precisely!" 

Your  afFectionate  son, 

W.  T.   Lusk, 
Aide-dc-Camp. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  369. 

"  But  the  generals  were  only  wasting  time  in  discussing  the  negro 
problem,  for  by  the  next  steamer,  early  in  March,  there  descended 
on  the  Department  of  the  South,  like  the  locusts  on  Egypt,  a  swarm 
of  treasury  agents  and  humanitarians,  male  and  female,  all  zealously 
bent  on  educating  and  elevating  the  'freedmen,'  as  they  immediately 
dubbed  the  blacks.  The  irreverent  young  officers  styled  these  good 
people  the  'Gideonites/  and  were  disposed  to  make  all  manner  of  fun 
of  them;  but  among  the  number  were  persons  of  the  highest  respecta- 
bility and  purest  motives,  and  they  undoubtedly  accomplished  some 
good.  They  met  with  a  cold  and  ungracious  reception  from  Gen. 
Sherman,  who  declared  that  their  coming  was  uncalled  for  and  entirely 
premature,  and  incontinently  packed  them  off  to  Beaufort  to  the  care 
of  General  Stevens.  .  .  .  The  latter  treated  them  with  the  utmost 
courtesy.  .  .  .  He  took  a  real  interest  in  their  mission,  talked  and 
advised  with  the  chiefs,  and  exerted  a  decided  and  salutary  influence 
in  modifying  some  of  their  crude  and  extravagant  ideas." 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  March  24th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

The  steamer  arrived  last  night,  bringing  a  long  letter 
from  you,  one  from  Horace  and  one  from  Walter,  affording 
of  course   much  pleasure,   but  the  tone  of  all  occasion- 


i3o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

ing  much  surprise.  Indeed,  in  the  midst  of  all  our 
victories  and  astonishing  successes,  it  is  to  me  inexplicable 
why  McClellan  should  be  attacked  with  such  a  savage 
spirit!  I  had  no  idea  that  the  spirit  of  malevolence  could 
carry  men  so  far,  but  I  am  confident  that  McClellan  will 
stand  justified  on  the  pages  of  history  for  preferring  to 
ensure  victory  where  reverses  would  have  been  well  nigh 
fatal.  The  plan  of  the  present  grand  campaign  may 
not  entirely  have  originated  with  McClellan,  but  un- 
doubtedly he  had  the  total  arrangement  of  it.  It  seems 
to  me  to  be  as  wise  and  perfect  a  one  as  was  possible, 
considering  the  magnificence  of  its  proportions.  Of 
course,  people  will  cry:  "Why  was  not  all  that  has  been 
done,  done  long  ago  ?"  But  I  honor  him  the  more  that  he 
had  the  moral  courage  to  wait.  It  is  well  enough  to  talk 
about  the  immense  army  at  his  disposal,  but  if  the  army 
is  a  mere  mob  without  cohesive  power,  a  Napoleon 
might  lead  them,  and  see  them  fly  from  earthworks  that 
would  excite  a  soldier's  derision.  I  believe  now  we  have 
an  army  of  soldiers,  and  believe  we  will  win  victories  at 
every  turn.  I  do  not  forget  though  the  lesson  of  Bull 
Run,  and  more  than  that,  it  is  not  many  months  ago  I 
can  remember  that  our  army,  despite  every  effort  of  its 
commanders,  was  a  poor,  cowed,  spiritless  thing  —  a  good 
army  to  get  killed  in,  but  a  poor  one  to  look  for  the  crown 
of  laurel.  I  say  McClellan  has  done  a  glorious  thing, 
and  shame  on  his  detractors!  A  few  short  weeks  ago 
when  Elliott  was  off  recruiting,  he  met  with  few  recruits, 
but  many  a  coward  tongue  eloquently  detailing  our  re- 
verses. And  now  I  suppose  they  would  rob  those  who 
have  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  day,  of  the  poor  praise 
which  they  had  hoped  for  when  the  fruit  of  their  labors 
had  ripened,  and  the  reapers  were  ready  to  gather  a  har- 


WAR    LETTERS  131 

vest  of  glory.  I  have  heard  many  say  that  they  do  nor 
pretend  to  have  any  military  knowledge,  bin  they  do 
pretend  to  be  governed  by  a  little  common  sense,  and  com- 
mon sense  teaches  them  so-and-so.     Now,  dear  mother, 

be  sure,  when  you  hear  men  talk  thus,  thai  <  ommon  sense 
means  simply  pure  ignorance.  It  was  this  common 
sense,  alias  ignorance,  that  forced  the  battle  of  Hull 
Run.  It  was  a  little  military  knowledge  that  has  made 
the  opening  of  the  year  1862  a  glorious  one  for  our 
Union  Army.  Enough!  I  have  had  my  say  —  have  ex- 
pressed my  disgust  —  and  may  now  change  the  subject. 

My  dearest  Mother,  it  will  be  a  sweet  thing  for  us  all 
to  see  peace  once  more  restored,  and  I  do  not  doubt  that 
no  one  prays  more  earnestly  for  it  than  yourself.  I 
cannot  but  feel  that  a  Higher  Power  has  guided  us  of  late 
to  victory  and  do  not  fear  for  the  result,  yet  bloody  battles 
must  be  fought  in  which  we  must  all  partake,  before 
the  olive-branch  is  possible.  I  hardly  think  that  the 
impatient  ones  at  home,  who  are  clamorous  as  to  the  in- 
activity and  want  of  efficiency  of  our  army,  will  have 
in  the  end  any  reason  to  complain  that  blood  enough  has 
not  been  shed  to  compensate  them  for  the  millions  they 
have  expended  on  it. 

Many  think  that  before  July  the  war  will  be  ended. 
How  pleasant  a  time  it  will  be  when  I  can  honorably 
return  home.  There  is  no  sweeter  anticipation  than  the 
joy  I  know  my  return  would  bring  to  your  heart.  I  have 
been  called  away  to  attend  to  some  business.  Very 
much  love  to  my  dear  sisters  and  the  little  ones. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 


i32  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  wrote  the  above  shortly  after  reading  my  letters. 
Since  then  I  have  been  diligently  reading  the  papers, 
and  perhaps  must  modify  my  opinions  somewhat,  but  as 
the  mail  leaves  in  a  few  moments,  you  must  take  the  first 
outburst,  or  none.  You  offer  me  a  flag;  send  it,  dear 
mother,  by  all  means.  It  shall  be  carried  when  we 
advance. 

Lovingly, 

Will. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  March  31st,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  hear  the  "Atlantic,"  which  has  just  arrived,  will  return 
at  once,  so  I  do  not  feel  willing  to  lie  down  without  writ- 
ing a  few  lines,  though  it  is  full  bedtime  now.  Gen. 
Hunter  was  here  this  afternoon.  I  saw  too  little  of  him, 
however,  to  form  any  judgment  with  regard  to  him,  as 
his  visit  was  brief.  Poor  Sherman  must  betake  himself 
to  the  Mississippi,  and  forego  for  the  future  the  sweets 
of  unrestrained  authority.  Sherman  has  doubtless  done 
a  good  work  down  here,  though  he  has  gained  no  glo- 
rious victories.  This,  however,  was  not  expected  by 
Government  which  never  once  thought  of  supplying  him 
with  the  force  requisite  to  active  operation.  To  be  sure 
his  force  comprises  nearly  20,000  men,  but  it  must  be 
remembered  this  is  not  a  great  force  when  the  line  ex- 
tends from  Dan  to  Beersheba.  I  am  no  special  admirer 
of  Sherman,  but  still  do  not  think  it  worth  while  to  join 
in  abusing  him  as  bitterly  as  most  do,  for  not  attempting 
what  did  not  lie  in  his  power.  Perhaps  I  am  mistaken, 
but  I  hardly  think  it  probable  Gen.  Hunter  will  do  much 


WAR   LETTERS  133 

better  than  his  predecessor  unless  properly  reinforced. 
Few  Generals,  I  find,  have  that  taste  for  fruitless  slaughter 
common  to  civilians,  and  most  shrink  from  Ba<  rificing  life 
where  nothing  definite  can  he  gained.  My  friends  fre- 
quently write,  asking  me  if  I  am  not  disgusted  at  the 
utter  inactivity  of  the  Command,  and  at  times  I  have 
written  strongly,  still  I  could  not  but  know  that  we  were 
so  from  necessity.  We  were  sent  here  by  Government 
simply  to  defend  a  Harbor  where  our  blockading  squad- 
ron could  ride  in  safety.  This  object  has  been  accom- 
plished, and  not  only  this,  but  the  whole  remaining  coast 
as  far  as  the  Gulf  of  Mexico  is  occupied  by  our  troops. 
More  than  this  has  been  done,  but  I  pause,  for  there 
will  be  much  to  tell  when  the  war  is  over,  which  one 
may  not  mention  now.  I  do  not  wish  you  to  understand 
that  Savannah  and  Charleston  might  not  have  been  ours 
had  our  leader  been  a  greater  man  than  is  generally 
vouchsafed  to  armies,  but  we  must  give  him  credit  for 
accomplishing  reasonable  possibilities.  Stevens,  I  think, 
would  have  accomplished  impossibilities,  but  quien  sabe. 

We  have  all  been  much  amused  in  reading  the  papers 
brought  by  the  last  mail,  at  the  editorials  of  Bennett  on 
"Our  Only  Son."  It  is  necessary  to  see  "Our  Only 
Son"  to  appreciate  the  feeling  remarks  of  the  tender 
parent. 

Do  not  suppose  that,  because  I  felt  some  little  amuse- 
ment at  the  early  experience  of  the  "Brethren"  down 
here,  I  am  in  any  wise  inclined  to  join  in  the  vulgar 
abuse  so  common  with  the  multitude.  I  sincerely  trust, 
indeed,  their  efforts  mav  be  attended  with  success,  and 
certainly  know   some  extremely  pleasant   people   among 

them.      I  do  not  like  Mr. though,  and  am  inclined 

to  doubt  the  sincerity  of  a  few. 


134 


WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 


Had  I  been  up  North  I  should  have  tried  to  have  got 
Gen.  Tyler  to  make  me  his  Adjutant-General,  being  able, 
I  believe,  to  give  satisfactory  testimonials  of  capacity  for 
the  detail  office-work  of  a  Brigade,  but  I  am  too  far  away 
to  heat  my  own  irons,  and,  indeed,  I  suppose  it  is  much 
better  to  wait  down  here,  until  something  has  been  done 
by  our  Command.  Write  me  if  Frank  Bend  is  to  occupy 
the  position  I  have  mentioned.     He  could  fill  it  well. 

I  have  got  quite  well  acquainted  with  two  of  General 
Tyler's  old  Aides  now  on  Gen.  Sherman's  Staff  and  both 
fine  fellows.  I  give  the  names,  O'Rourke  and  Merrill,  as 
Mrs.  T.  may  have  been  acquainted  with  them. 

Well,  my  dear  mother,  I  write  a  deal  that  I  would 
not  like  to  have  repeated. 

My  clothes,  though  quite  lately  new  (December),  are 
beginning  to  grow  rusty.  I  think  it  would  be  a  good 
plan  to  have  a  new  suit  made  for  me.  I  shall  need  it 
before  it  reaches  me.  I  am  greatly  in  need  of  shirts  (3 
will  do  me).  You  know  I  left  home  with  a  small  valise. 
My  wardrobe  has  since  been  diminished  by  Bull  Run,  by 
washerwomen,  by  thieves,  and  by  natural  wear  and  tear, 
so  that  I  have  become  almost  as  much  an  object  of  charity 
as  the  contrabands.  I  have  been  under  the  hallucination 
ever  since  leaving  home,  that  a  good  time  would  come 
when  I  would  be  able  to  return  again,  and  fit  myself  out 
properly  for  a  campaign.  Not  having  seen  the  time  yet, 
it  was  lucky  that  the  box  you  sent  me  supplied  me  with 
the  means  of  sustaining  myself  to  say  the  least. 

Now,  my  dear  mother,  fearing  that  you  may  exaggerate 
my  needs,  I  will  confess  candidly  that  all  I  want  are  3 
or  4  shirts  and  a  few  pairs  of  stockings.  Handkerchiefs 
and  towels  I  have  in  abundance.  I  would  like  everything 
as  plain  as  possible,  for  anything  that  has  a  tinge  of  red, 


WAR    LETTERS  135 

or  yellow  or  blue,  it  is  impossible  to  prevent  the  n<  gr< 
from  appropriating  to  their  own  us<  • 

Before  two  months  are  ov<  r,  the  time  for  military  opi  ra- 
tion down  here  will  have  passed,  SO  we  have  every 
reason  to  suppose  that  the  time  lias  come  when  our 
Command  will  commence  a  victorious  career.  When  the 
summer  heats  shall  prevent  any  further  movement,  I  trust, 
dear  mother,  I  may  be  allowed  to  spend  a  few  days  with 
you.  That  would  he  so  delightful.  Good-bye,  kiss  all 
around,  sisters,  little  ones  and  all.  Love  to  Aunt  Maria 
and  Uncle  Phelps.  Tell  the  latter  I  will  send  him  a 
check  by  the  earliest  opportunity. 

Yours  affec'y., 

Will. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade,  S.  C. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  April  3d,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

The  steamer  has  not  yet  gone,  so  I  seat  myself  once 
more  to  write  you  a  few  lines.  With  regard  to  getting 
myself  a  new  suit  of  clothes  I  have  changed  my  mind 
for  the  present,  having  been  fortunate  enough  to  obtain 
a  light  flannel  suit  for  every  day  wear,  from  one  of  the 
officers  just  returning  from  the  North.  This  will  be  fully 
sufficient  with  my  old  suit,  until  I  shall  have  an  oppor- 
tunity to  return  home  —  a  thing  not  to  be  anticipated  for 
the  present — when  I  wish  to  appear  as  fine  as  possible. 
Mrs.  Gen.  Stevens  returns  by  the  "Atlantic,"  it  having 
been  thought  best  by  our  new  Commander  to  send  home 
all  officers'  wives.  The  order  has  not  yet  been  issued, 
but  Mrs.  Stevens  wishes  to  leave  in  time  to  anticipate  it. 
On  arriving  at  New7- York,  she  will  stop  at  the  St.  Nicholas 
Hotel  for  two  or  three  davs.     If  you  can  manage  to  see 


136  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

her,  you  will  be  much  pleased  with  her,  as  she  is  extremely 
lady-like  and  agreeable. 

I  told  Alfred  Rockwell  of  your  congratulations,  at  which 
he  seemed  much  pleased.     Love  to  all. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  April  ioth,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  was  glad  to  get  your  photograph,  as  it  does  not  look, 
as  did  the  other  one  you  sent  me,  as  though  you  were  the 
last  inhabitant  without  a  friend  left  in  the  world.  This 
one  is  a  thousand  times  more  agreeable,  though  I  have 
to  make  allowances  for  those  very  extraordinary  expres- 
sions which  play  about  your  mouth,  when  photographically 
tortured. 

The  bombardment  of  Pulaski  has  begun  to-day.  Full 
accounts,  I  hope,  of  the  "fall"  will  be  taken  North  by 
the  steamer  bearing  this.  We  can  hear  the  guns  booming 
in  the  distance,  but  our  Brigade,  with  the  exception  of 
the  8th  Michigan  Regiment,  is  condemned  to  remain  at 
Beaufort.  So  I  shall  see  nothing,  but  hope  soon  to  hear 
the  fort  is  ours,  and,  indeed,  so  secretly,  yet  so  securely 
have  preparations  been  made,  that  we  can  hardly  fail 
of  success.  It  is  dangerous  though  to  make  predictions, 
so  often  have  I  read  similar  sentences  in  "Secesh"  letters 
written  just  previous  to  a  defeat. 

The  atmosphere  is  most  delightful  to-day.  I  wish 
you  could  breathe  such  balmy,  though  invigorating  air. 
It  is  hard  to  realize  that  it  soon  will  change  to  an  atmos- 
phere deleterious  in  character. 

It  is  strange  to  think  how  ordinary  dangers  lose  all 
terror  in  these  war-times.     I  have  been  almost  constantly 


LieutWTLusk  LtEur.  A  Cottrell  Major  G .  S.Kemsle 

Capt   B.F.Porter     Capt  Haz  \rd  Stevens    General  Stevens      Lieut.  B.R  .  Lyons 
General  Isaac    I.Stevens  and  his    Staff 


WAR   LETTERS  137 

exposed  to  smallpox,  yet  never  have  so  much  as  thought 
of  the  matter  further  than  to  assure  myself  thai  the  vac- 
cination was  all  right.  It  is  wonderful  tOO  how  perfect 
a  safeguard  vaccination  is.  Although  smallpox  lias  been 
so  prevalent,  it  has  been  wholly  confined  to  the  negnx  . 
and  young  children,  and  a  few  backwoodsmen,  to  whom 
modern  safeguards  were  not  accessible,  or  who  had  neg- 
lected the  common  precaution.  I  think  there  has  nor 
been  a  case  among  our  vaccinated  soldiers.  It  is  quite  a 
relief  to  feel  that  this  is  so. 

I  am  glad  to  hear  of  all  my  friends  wheeling  so  enthu- 
siastically into  the  service  of  their  country.  As  far  as  I 
can  ascertain,  the  position  of  an  Allotment  Commissioner 
is  one  that  requires  an  earnest  determination  to  do  some- 
thing, to  tempt  any  one  to  accept  it,  and  yet  it  is  really 
a  philanthropic  act  to  perform  its  purposes. 

I  wish  Charley  Johnson  would  come  down  here.  I 
would  give  him  the  best  reception  I  know  how,  and  this 
is  a  pleasant  season  to  visit  Beaufort.  You  ask  for  my 
photograph  dear  mother,  and  I  meant  long  since  to  have 
gratified  you,  having  had  myself  taken  alone,  in  company 
with  the  Staff,  and  on  horseback  with  the  Staff — in  a 
variety  of  positions,  you  see,  to  suit  everyone.  But  I  know 
not  how  it  is  that  I  have  never  been  able  to  get  a  copy  since 
they  were  first  struck  ofF,  although  we  have  had  promises 
enough  that  they  will  soon  be  ready.  I  intended  to 
surprise  you,  but  despairing  of  success,  I  write  the  matter 
that  you  may  not  think  I  have  not  tried  to  gratify  your 
wishes. 

I  am  suffering  great  torments  from  the  sand-flies  which 
abound.  These  are  the  peskiest  little  creatures  you  ever 
saw,  completely  forbidding  sleep  on  a  warm  night,  and 
defying  such  flimsy  obstruction  as  mosquito  bars. 


138  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  wrote  Sam  Elliott  a  few  days  ago.  Wm.  Elliott  has 
returned  looking  well,  and  disgusted  with  leaves  of  ab- 
sence. He  is  really  about  the  most  efficient  man  in  the 
Brigade.  His  education  has  given  him  great  habits  of 
self-reliance,  which  are  invaluable  in  his  profession.  Give 
my  love  to  Mrs.  Walter  Phelps,  and  tell  her  I  expect  she 
will  send  me  a  photograph  of  that  precious  baby  of  hers. 
Capital  idea  photographs  are! 

Love  to  all  my  dear  friends. 

Affec'y., 
Will. 

(To  Horace  Barnard) 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  April  12th,  1862. 

I  hardly  know  how,  writing  from  peaceful  Beaufort,  I 
can  find  themes  so  exciting  as  to  gratify  the  tastes  of  the 
public,  used  to  tales  of  victories  purchased  at  bloody 
rates;  yet  the  importance  of  the  work  now  quietly  being 
wrought  at  Beaufort  must  not  be  underrated. 

Here  too,  as  well  as  on  the  splendid  fields  of  the  West, 
the  spirit  of  John  Brown  is  marching  on.  Toward  the 
close  of  last  autumn  our  troops  entered  Beaufort,  then 
deserted  by  its  inhabitants,  and  looking  sad  and  desolate. 
Now  the  winter  has  passed  away  and  the  spring  is  far 
advanced.  Nature  has  put  on  her  most  lovable  hues. 
The  dense  dark  foliage  of  the  pine  and  the  magnolia 
harmoniously  mingle  with  the  bright  new  leaves  of  the 
forest.  The  streets  of  the  city  are  once  more  busy  with 
life.  Vessels  float  in  the  harbor.  Plantations  are  being 
cultivated.  Wharves  are  being  built.  Business  is  pros- 
perous. And  the  quondam  proud  resort  of  the  proudest 
of  Aristocrats  is  being  inundated  with  Yankees  acquainted 
with   low   details   regarding   Dollars   and    Cents.     There 


WAR   LETTERS  139 

are  all  sorts  of  Yankee  ventures  in  town,  from  the  man 
with  the  pateni  armor  recommended  by  McClellan,  which 
no  one  buys,  to  th<-  enterprising  individual  who  manu- 
factures j)ics  in  ilic  old  Connecticut  style,  and  who  has 
laid  the  foundation  of  an  immense  fortune.  Even  Hm  one 
only  man  of  Beaufort,"  catching  the  spirit  of  trade,  dis- 
plays a  few  dingy  wares  in  n  shop-window.  Bui  why," 
the  impatient  public  asks,  "is  our  Army  so  far  away 
from  Savannah  ?"  "Strategy,  my  dear  puhlic,"  I  answer. 
Can  anything  be  more  beautiful  than  the  strategy  of  our 
Leaders,  which  strips  war  of  its  terrors  and  makes  it  so 
eminently  safe  ?  Tell  me,  if  Mars  chooses  to  beat  his 
sword  into  a  ploughshare,  and  devote  himself  to  the  cul- 
tivation of  sea-island  cotton,  and  invites  live  Yankees 
to  assist  him  therein,  ought  not  the  satire  of  the  thing 
to  please  the  restless  spirit  of  John  Brown  and  excite  it  to 
renewed  efforts  in  its  great  performance  of  marching  on  ? 
Now  there  is  no  doubt  that  our  Army  ought  long  ago  to 
have  been  in  possession  of  both  Charleston  and  Savannah. 
Common  sense  teaches  us  that  much,  although  we  know 
nothing  whatever  of  military  affairs  forsooth,  and  still 
less  of  the  peculiar  circumstances  which  happen  to  govern 
the  action  of  our  Generals.  Well,  when  we  see  matters 
in  this  condition,  common  sense  teaches  us  that  the 
proper  remedy  is  to  decapitate  incompetency,  and  to  put 
the  "right  man  in  the  right  place."  The  proper  time  for 
doing  this  is  when,  after  long  and  earnest  labor,  a  Com- 
mander is  seen  to  be  ready  to  strike  a  blow.  Then  is  the 
moment  to  clamor  loudly  for  his  dismissal,  and  insist 
that  another  be  put  in  his  place,  and  when  this  one  shall 
reap  the  harvest  his  predecessor  sowed,  we  will  all  nod 
our  heads  approvingly  at  such  evidence  of  our  own 
ineffable  wisdom.     This  is  decidedly  the  most  pleasant 


i4o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

mode  of  proceeding  for  a  public  unacquainted  with  mili- 
tary matters  but  governed  by  common  sense,  and  it  is 
so  satisfactory  to  all  parties  concerned,  excepting  perhaps 
the  poor,  devil  that  gets  decapitated.  This,  however,  is 
a  digression,  intended  possibly  as  a  sort  of  "haec  fabula 
docet"  derived  from  the  recent  capture  of  Pulaski.  So, 
to  return  — 

Oh,  darn  it  all,  my  dear  Horace,  I'll  send  the  subscrip- 
tion price  of  the  Evening  Post  without  further  delay. 
Here  I've  been  floundering  around,  using  up  whole  reams 
of  paper  trying  to  work  up  a  newspaper  style,  but  I  have 
only  succeeded  in  getting  together  a  vast  amount  of  ma- 
terial to  kindle  fires  with.  I  thought  I  was  doing  beauti- 
fully when  I  commenced  this,  but,  becoming  disgusted 
with  myself,  I  have  concluded  to  give  you  the  benefit 
of  the  production  and  spare  the  public.  Thanks  many 
times  for  your  long,  kind  letter.  You  don't  know  how 
enjoyable  it  was.  It  has  got  to  be  late  at  night  and 
soldiers  must  rise  early  you  know.  I  have  just  been 
reading  over  this  epistle  and  see  that  I  have  been 
making  a  feeble  effort  to  be  funny.  Prithee  forgive  me. 
I  didn't  mean  to.  Give  my  love  to  Cousin  Lou,  Miss 
Hattie,  Anima  Mia,  Miss  Alice  (if  it  be  proper),  and 
friends  upon  Murray  Hill. 

Very  afrec'y., 

Will  Lusk. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  April  15th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Not  wishing  you  to  be  exposed  to  disappointment,  I 
must  write  a  few  brief  lines  by  the  mail  that  I  have  just 
learned  will  leave  here  in  a  short  time.  I  have  hardly 
anything  to  write  beside  the  delight  at  the  news  received 


WAR   LETTERS  141 

by  latest  advices.  The  fall  of  i\o.  [0,  the  battle  at 
Corinth,  and  the  surrender  of  Pulaski  are  a  rare  combina- 
tion of  good  things  to  conic  at  one  time.  I  can  give  you 
no  particulars  regarding  the  bombardment  at  Pulaski, 
as  it  was  expected  t<>  continue  several  days,  and  the  Gen- 
eral consequently  postponed  visiting  the  scene  of  action 
until  it  was  too  late.  The  newspapers,  however,  will  be 
full  of  the  matter,  I  suppose,  and  will  be  loud  in  their 
praises  of  General  Hunter,  though  he  had  really  nothing 
whatever  to  do  with  it.  The  whole  affair  was  prepared 
under  the  Sherman  regime,  and  to  it  belongs  the  credit. 
The  one  immediately  deserving  of  credit  is  General 
Gilmore  who  has  had  the  direct  superintendence  of  the 
matter. 

We  are  hoping  for  reinforcements  soon  from  the  North, 
feeling,  as  we  do,  unwilling  to  enter  into  summer  without 
having  contributed  something  to  the  glory  and  success 
of  our  cause.  But  we  are  half  relinquishing  the  hope 
that  the  Government  considers  our  little  post  in  other 
light  than  a  good  field  for  emancipation  experiments. 
I  am  sorry  to  say  I  do  not  feel  great  sympathy  in  the  efforts 
made  at  present  in  that  line  —  not  that  I  do  not  feel  the 
necessity  of  the  question's  being  settled,  or  do  not  feel 
the  same  interest  that  others  do  in  the  question  itself.  I 
am  delighted  to  think  that  the  time  .has  come  when  slavery 
has  lost  its  power,  and  something  is  to  be  done  for  the 
regeneration  of  the  negro,  but  believe  the  question  to  be 
one  of  such  delicacy,  and  requiring  in  its  solution  such 
rare  wisdom,  that  I  can  not  but  be  filled  with  extreme 
disgust  at  the  character  of  the  agents  employed.  I  do 
believe  that  there  is  hardly  one  of  them  who  would 
have  the  slightest  chance  of  success  in  anything  but  pro- 
fessional philanthropy.     A  more  narrow-minded  pack  of 


i+2  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

fools  I  rarely  ever  met.  Instead  of  showing  the  neces- 
sary qualities  for  the  position,  they  seem  to  care  for 
nothing  but  their  miserable  selves.  There  is  undoubtedly 
some  good  leaven  in  the  mass,  but,  could  you  see  them, 
the  men  especially,  I  do  not  think  they  would  command 
your  sympathies  much.  I  suppose  such  preliminary 
experiments  have  to  be  made  though,  before  any  syste- 
matic plan  can  be  adopted  for  the  general  amelioration 
of  the  mass.  I  do  wish  though  there  were  more  unselfish 
ones  among  them,  and  a  few  more  acquainted  with 
worldly  matters.  The  ladies  are  by  far  the  best  part, 
for  they  mostly  came  down  under  excitement,  or  deter- 
mined to  do  good.  Here's  a  pretty  dish  of  scandal,  truly, 
but  I  get  exasperated  sometimes. 

I  am  much  obliged  to  Hattie  for  her  kind  offer  to  make 
the  flag  for  me.  Any  such  evidence  of  kindly  feeling  is 
appreciated,  I  assure  you,  down  here. 

A  steamer  lies  embedded  in  the  sand  a  short  distance 
from  the  shore.  I  think  it  has  some  mail  matter  aboard, 
so  I  watch  it  impatiently. 

Good-bye,  dear  Mother,  love  to  all  and  believe  me, 

Affectionately, 
Your  son, 

Will. 


"Rebellion  Record,"  Vol.  IV,  p.  441  of  Documents. 

Gen.  Sherman's  reconnoissance  on  the  Corinth  (Miss.)  road  occurred 
April  8th. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  pp.  378  and  379. 

"With  the  thorough  knowledge  of  the  enemy's  defences  he  had  so 
carefully  gained,"  (through  scouts  —  Captain  William  Elliott  and  Cap- 
tain Ralph  Ely)  General  Stevens  conceived  the  plan  of  destroying  the 
railway  between  Charleston   and  Savannah,  and  then  with  Sherman's 


WAR   LETTERS  143 

cooperation,  "to  strike  for  Charleston  by  the  innei  waterways  .  .  .  thus 
completely  turning  the  heavy  harbor  and  sea  defences  which  protected 
the  ciiy  againsi  .1  from  attack.  ■  ■  ■  General  Sherman  decided  to  adopt 
and  carry  it"  (Stevens's  plan)  "out  as  soon  as  the  fall  "l  Pulaski  should 
free  his  whole  (one  for  the  operation.  ( Commodore  I  )upom  also  hi  irtily 
entered  into  the  plan. 

Page  380.  "Fort  Pulaski  fell  April  nth.  With  due  allowance  for 
preparation  and  delays,  the  railroad  should  have  been  destroyed  and 
our  army  in  possession  of  Church  Flats"  (14  miles  from  Charleston) 
"by  May  1st." 

Page  $83.  "But  tli is  promising  movement  was  nipped  in  the  bud 
by  the  untimely  and  unexpected  arrival  of  MajoH  leneral  David  Hunter 
to  supersede  Sherman.  Brigadier-General  II.  W.  Benham  accom- 
panied Hunter  as  a  kind  of  second  in  command.  In  fact,  both  officers 
were  enfants  terribles,  whom  the  administration  exiled  to  South  Carolina 
to  pet  rid  of.  Hunter  had  just  been  relieved  from  commanding  in  Mis- 
souri, for  an  act  of  insubordination  in  issuing  an  emancipation  proclama- 
tion in  defiance  of  orders;  and  Benham,  fresh  from  skirmishes  in  West 
Virginia,  was  in  Washington,  claiming  everything  in  the  way  of  credit, 
and  loudly  importuning  the  government  for  high  command,  when  they 
were  ordered  to  South  Carolina." 

"Sherman  turned  over  the  command  of  the  department,  and  sailed 
North  April  8th.  Three  days  later  Pulaski  fell  after  a  day  and  a  half's 
bombardment,  and  Benham  made  haste  to  claim  the  credit  of  the  achieve- 
ment due  to  Sherman  and  Gilmore." 

A  clipping  from  a  Norwich  newspaper  of  April  24th,  1862,  entitled 
"From  Hilton  Head"  and  giving  news  of  the  Connecticut  troops  under 
Major-General  Hunter,  includes  the  following: 

"Capt.  Wm.  T.  Lusk,  of  the  Seventy-ninth  N.  Y.,  (late  of  this  city), 
now  on  Gen.  Stevens's  staff,  is  located  at  Beaufort.  There  is  no  one 
who  surpasses  him  in  reputation  for  gallantry,  and  soldierly  qualities." 


Beaufort,  S.  C.  May  2d,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

May  has  opened  charmingly  in  Beaufort.  The  air  is 
warm  but  not  oppressive.  We  are  luxuriating  in  green 
peas,  strawberries,  blackberries,  all  the  early  vegetables, 
and  the  fig  trees,  loaded  with  fruit,  will  soon  supply  us 
with  an  abundance  of  green  figs.  Fish  are  supplied  by 
the  rivers  in  great  plenty.     Indeed  we  are  well  supplied 


i44  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

with  all  sorts  of  good  things,  so  we  have  little  of  which 
we  can  complain,  except  inaction.  It  is  now  fifteen  days 
since  a  mail  has  reached  us  from  the  North.  Telegraphic 
news  in  the  columns  of  the  Charleston  Mercury  dated 
the  26th,  speaks  of  the  city  being  in  great  alarm  from 
the  advancing  army  and  fleet  of  Genl.  Butler.  A  sailing 
vessel  occasionally  brings  us  a  newspaper  from  the  North. 
Otherwise  we  would  be  quite  separated  from  the  rest  of 
mankind,  and  would  be  compelled  to  consider  the  North 
as  having  regularly  seceded  from  us. 

I  have  received  the  beautiful  flag  you  sent  me.  I  gave 
it  to  the  boys  of  the  Company,  who  were  delighted.  The 
other  companies  are  quite  envious.  Thanks,  dear  Mother, 
a  thousand  times,  for  the  expression  of  your  love. 

I  think  after  all  I  must  have  that  new  suit  of  clothes 
I  wrote  for  before.  Notwithstanding  all  efforts  to  the 
contrary,  my  old  suit  will  persist  in  growing  daily  rustier, 
and  more  unseemly  in  the  seams.  So  if  you  will  please 
have  the  suit  ordered,  I  shall  find  good  use  for  it  full  as 
soon  as  it  shall  be  ready  for  me. 

Tell  Mr.  Johnson  I  had  a  right  pleasant  time  with  his 
friend  Bronson,  and  add  too  that  Sloat's  men  produced 
such  an  effect  on  the  79th  Regiment,  that  it  is  impossible 
to  persuade  them  that  the  whole  affair  of  allotment  is 
anything  more  than  a  Jew  swindle.  I  am  looking  for- 
ward with  great  delight  to  the  next  steamer  arrival,  an- 
ticipating a  heavy  mail  after  so  long  neglect.  There  is 
so  little  of  interest  to  write.  I  believe  I  wrote  you  there 
was  quite  a  charming  lady,  a  Mrs.  Caverly,  stopping  at 
the  General's.  Her  husband  is  dying  with  consumption 
and  has  come  here  to  try  the  effect  of  the  climate.  You 
can  imagine  that  a  pretty  and  lively  lady  makes  quite  a 
difference  in  the  house. 


WAR    LI/HERS  145 

You  do  not  know  how  inexpressibly  indignant  I  feel  at 
the  attacks  made  on  McClellan.  They  are  certainly  most 
scandalous,  and  calculated  to  ensure  liis  defeat  were  he 

in  any  wise  what  his  enemies  represent  him.  It  is  the 
height  of  folly  to  suppose  that  men  are  going  to  sacrifice 
their  lives,  unless  they  have  good  reason  to  suppose  that 
they  are  to  be  brought  at  the  right  moment  to  the  right 
spot  to  play  their  part  in  gaining  a  victory.  You  have 
only  to  convince  them  that  incompetent  men  are  putting 
them  in  positions  to  occasion  a  defeat,  and  they  will  run 
before  a  shot  is  fired.  It  would  seem  that  the  enemies 
of  McClellan  are  doing  their  utmost  to  produce  that  sort 
of  spirit  of  distrust  in  our  troops,  so  as  to  lead  to  new 
disasters.  I  am  sick  and  tired  of  these  howling  politicians 
who  would  be  willing  to  see  everything  we  consider  holy 
destroyed,  provided  they  could  only  under  the  new  regime 
get  the  Governmental  patronage  of  the  devil. 

Affec'y.  your  son, 

Will. 
Flourishes  supposed  to  indicate  genius. 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade. 
My  dear  Mother: 

The  "Atlantic"  has  just  arrived  bringing  me  two  letters 
from  which  I  judge  all  is  going  on  well  at  home.  I  had 
heard  from  Mr.  Johnson  that  Lilly  would  soon  be  married, 
but  I  did  not  give  the  matter  much  thought,  willing  to 
wait  until  I  should  hear  the  story  from  the  best  of  all 
sources  of  information  —  herself.  I  must  say  I  cordially 
approve  of  the  measure.  Prudence  is  without  doubt  most 
commendable,  and  Mr.  Matthus  is  certainly  theoretically 
right,   still,  luckily  for  the  happiness    of  young  couples, 


146  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  believe  that  it  is  generally  conceded  that  it  is  in  the 
shop  of  Care  and  Responsibility  that  the  best  kind  of 
prudence  gets  fabricated.  I  go  in  for  the  wedding  at 
any  rate.  Shall  make  myself  merry  on  the  occasion  if 
allowed  to  attend,  and  have  some  romantic  notions  that 
trouble  is  not  so  hard  to  bear  when  there  are  two  to 
share  the  burden.  Anyway  let  Lilly  write  me,  and  give 
me  her  mature  reflections  on  the  subject. 

I  was  very  much  gratified  to  think  you  took  the  little 
parcel  of  money  I  sent  home  last.  It  makes  me  feel  quite 
proud  to  think  I  could  be  of  any  help  in  such  a  way.  I 
do  hope  Dr.  Grant  will  get  sent  to  Congress.  He  would 
be  such  an  honor  to  my  native  State,  and  would  know 
how  to  keep  his  political  garments  clean,  even  in  a  cess- 
pool such  as  our  National  Capitol. 

Of  course  we  are  all  hurrahing  for  the  evacuation  of 
Yorktown.  It  so  happens  that  the  rebels  have  no  place 
its  equal  in  strength  in  the  whole  confederacy.  Yet  that 
wretched  puling  sheet,  the  ,  while  professing  pleas- 
ure, is  covertly  pursuing  McClellan  as  usual,  declaring 
that  the  work  had  been  greatly  exaggerated,  and  that 
we  might  have  had  Yorktown  a  month  ago.  My  dear 
Mother,  I  have  had  the  pleasure  of  seeing  and  knowing 
the  pack  of  vagabonds  that  follow  our  armies  in  the 
employ  of  newspapers  for  the  purpose  of  criticising  our 
movements,  and  I  know  that  truth,  fairness  and  prin- 
ciple in  description  go  only  so  far  as  the  politics  of  their 
respective  sheets  allow.  It  would  make  you  indignant 
could  you  see  the  characters  who  take  upon  themselves 
the  censorship  of  our  military  movement.  Such  a  thing 
as  any  reasonable  acquaintance  with  what  they  prate  about, 
is  unnecessary  and  probably  would  interfere  too  much 
with  the  style  of  their  criticism. 


WAR    LI/ITLRS  147 

You  may  s<c  Win.  Ely,  who  i'.  now  North.  He  is  one 
of  our  Conn,  boys  who  docs  his  state  great  credit. 

We  had  a  concert  lien-  ;i  few  evenings  ago,  BO  I  will 
enclose  the  programme. 

Good-bye.      Much  love  to  all. 

Your  afl'cc.  Son, 

Will. 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  May  18th,   1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  am  going  to  write  you  a  short  letter  to-nirdit,  as  there 
are  some  rumors  of  business  on  hand  this  week,  which 
may  not  leave  me  much  time  for  correspondence.  If  it 
should  turn  out  a  false  alarm,  I  will  try  and  write  again 
shortly.  Time  is  slipping  by  rapidly,  as  my  clothes 
testify  especially,  and  unless  I  soon  receive  a  reinforce- 
ment to  my  stock,  I  shall  look  like  a  "Secesh"  after  a 
twelve-month  blockade.  My  present  suit,  after  stand- 
ing by  me  nobly  for  several  months,  seemed  all  of  a  sud- 
den to  give  out  all  over,  as  you  know  clothes  will  do  at 
times.  Fact  is,  I  supposed  I  should  have  been  home  for 
a  few  days  long  before  now,  but  a  favorable  moment 
does  not  seem  to  turn  up  ready  made  to  suit  my  case 
exactly.  If  you  have  a  chance,  please  send  me  a  cravat, 
as  my  own,  under  the  influence  of  the  weather,  after  pass- 
ing through  a  thousand  varieties  of  color,  has  finallv 
settled  into  such  rueful  hues,  that  I  have  concluded  to 
beg  for  another.  Any  lady  that  will  make  me  a  present 
of  a  new  cravat,  shall  receive  in  exchange  the  old  one  as 
a  specimen  of  what  things  come  to  after  having  been 
through  the  wars.  A  box  of  tooth-powder  would  like- 
wise be  acceptable  as  my  teeth  are  getting  quite  shabby. 
Never  mind,  I  will  come  home  and  get  tinkered  up  one  of 


i4S  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

these  days,  a  thing  I  am  mightily  in  need  of.  I  wonder 
whether  opening  the  Port  of  Beaufort  will  bring  hither- 
ward  a  large  installment  of  the  commerce  of  the  world; 
if  so,  never  mind  about  the  tooth-powder. 

We  have  all  been  pleasantly  excited  by  the  cunning 
escape  of  the  negroes  from  Charleston  with  the  Steamer 
"  Planter."  The  pilot,  Robert,  is  the  hero  of  the  hour, 
and  is  really  a  most  remarkable  specimen  of  the  dusky 
sons  of  Africa  [alias  nigger),  never  using  a  word  of  less 
than  three  syllables  when  an  opportunity  offers. 

We  all  were  in  the  habit  of  abusing  Genl.  Sherman  in 
old  times,  but  with  customary  fickleness,  wish  him  back 
again  now.  This  last  batch  of  General  officers  with  the 
"Great  Superseder"  (Hunter)  at  the  head,  is  poor  trash  at 
best,  so  that  there  are  few  who  would  not  rejoice  to  have 
"Uncle  Tim"  (Sherman)  back  again,  notwithstanding 
his  dyspepsia  and  peripatetic  propensities.  This  is  entre 
nous,  and  quite  unofficial,  for  as  my  superior  officer,  I 
must  recognize  in  the  "Great  Superseder"  a  miracle  of 
wisdom,  forecast  and  discretion.  Oh  my,  what  an  ill- 
natured  letter!  Never  mind,  behind  it  all  there  is  lots 
of  love  in  it  for  those  whose  eyes  it  is  likely  to  meet,  and 
kisses  too  for  my  mother,  sisters,  nephews  and  others 
where  they  would  be  at  once  desirable  and  proper. 

The  "Connecticut"  has  arrived,  but  the  mail  has  not 
been  distributed  yet. 

Yours  affec'y-> 
W.  T.  Lusk. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  374. 

The  following  is  taken  from  a  letter  written  by  Gen.  Stevens  to  his 
wife,  dated  May  18th. 

"Above  is  a  view  of  the  steamer  Planter,  a  despatch  boat  of  Gen. 
Ripley  in  Charleston  Harbor,  which  was  run  off  by  the  pilot  Robert 


WAR    LETTERS  149 

and  the  black  crew  last  week.  Ii  ia  a  very  remarkable  affair,  and 
makes  quite  a  hero  of  Robert.  She  vv;is  tied  up  at  the  wharf  1 
Ripley's  office.  Yet  he  slipped  out  of  the  harbor  unobserved,  and  gave  the 
steamer  up  to  our  blockading  fleet.  I  he  Plantei  lay  ai  Beaufon  from 
Thursday  morning  to  this  morning.  She  was  run  oil  on  I  uesday, 
May  13th." 

Beaufort,  S.  C.  May  28th,  [862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

After  12  o'clock  at  night,  and  the  certainty  of  a  fatiguing 
day  to-morrow,  to  be  followed  still  by  days  in  which  sleep 

will  be  but  stingily  indulged  in  —  so  I  must  write  briefly. 
At  length  a  prospect  is  before  us  of  active  service.  The 
long  dreamed  of  time  has  arrived,  and  the  word  "On- 
ward to  Charleston"  has  been  spoken.  Unless  a  steamer 
arrives  to-morrow  from  the  North,  which  shall  utterly 
change  all  plans,  on  Friday  we  will  make  our  start.  The 
same  steamer  that  takes  you  this  will  likewise  make  known 
to  you  my  fate.  I  trust  I  may  write  you  from  Charles- 
ton. The  plan  of  attack  is  Benham's.  Hunter  only 
suffers  it.  Capt.  Elliott  is  off  to-night  to  destroy  the 
railroad  communication  between  Charleston  and  Sav- 
annah. He  is  our  principal  dependence  when  anything 
desperate  is  to  be  wisely  done. 

Multitudes  of  farewell  kisses  for  yourself,  sisters,  the 
little  boys,  and  others  claiming  love,  and  the  kindest 
remembrances  to  Hunt,  Tom,  Walter,  Horace,  Sam  and 
others. 

Good-bye,  dear  Mother. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  J  ol.  II,  p.  3S7. 

"Benham  was  greedv  to  signalize  himself.  His  dense  egotism  and 
self-sufficiency  rendered  him  almost  incapable  of  listening  to  anv  sug- 
gestions, or  even  information,  that  did  not  originate  with  himself.     The 


1 5o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

movement  planned  by  Gen.  Stevens  with  so  much  care  was  rejected  off- 
hand by  Benham." 

Benham  conceived  a  plan  of  sending  a  force  upon  Charleston  by 
way  of  James  Island. 

Page  388.  "The  plan  was  entirely  practicable,  but  marred  from  the 
start  by  Benham's  unfortunate  talent  for  blundering.  .  .  .  General 
Stevens  pointed  out  to  him  that  he  was  not  allowing  time  enough  for 
Wright  to  make  the  movement  required  of  him,  and  reach  James  Island 
simultaneously  with  the  other  division.  .  .  .  Benham  took  this  friendly 
advice  in  dudgeon.  The  orders  were  not  changed,  and  Wright  was  just 
one  week  behind  the  appointed  time,  as  predicted. 

"As  soon  as  he  was  informed  of  the  intended  movement,  General 
Stevens  earnestly  urged  Benham  to  inaugurate  it  by  sending  him  to 
break  up  the  railroad,  as  he  had  so  long  and  so  well  planned,  or,  if  not 
with  the  heavy  force  and  thoroughness  approved  by  General  Sherman,  at 
least  to  permit  him  to  throw  his  own  brigade  upon  it.  .  .  .  Finally  he" 
(Benham)  "would  only  consent  that  a  demonstration  might  be  made  by 
the  single  regiment  that  was  to  be  left  to  garrison  Beaufort,  the  50th 
Pennsylvania,  stipulating,  moreover,  that  it  was  to  be  back  the  same  day 
it  started  on  the  raid.  Accordingly  the  50th,  under  Colonel  Christ,  sup- 
ported by  a  company  of  the  Highlanders  .  .  .  and  a  section  of  Rockwell's 
battery,  advanced  on  May  29  to  Pocotaligo,  had  a  brisk  skirmish  with 
the  enemy,  driving  him  from  his  position,  with  a  loss  of  two  killed,  six 
wounded,  and  two  captured,  and  returned.  The  Union  loss  was  two 
killed  and  nine  wounded.  How  different  this  mere  demonstration  from 
the  bold  and  crushing  onslaught  planned  by  General  Stevens!" 

Headquarters  2d  Brigade, 
Nor.  Dist.  Dept.  of  the  South, 

James  Island,  June  4th,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  must  write  a  few  lines  to  inform  you  of  my  continued 
welfare,  although  we  are  now  actually  in  the  field.  We 
have  had  much  skirmishing  the  past  few  days  and  some 
small  losses.  I  got  in  a  bog  yesterday,  lost  my  horse, 
and  had  a  hot  time  of  it  escaping.  I  will  give  you  the 
particulars,  when  I  have  time  to  be  minute.  I  cannot  say 
how  soon  the  engagement  will  become  general.  We  have 
a  young  prisoner  with  us  named  Henry  Walker,  who  was  a 
Lieutenant  in  Sam  Lord's  Company.      He  reports  Capt. 


WAR    LI/I'IKRS  151 

Lord  on  the  island.     Alfred   Tyler   is  also   here.     Tell 

Cousin  Louisa,  Lord  is  still  by  no  mi ians  rabid  in  his 
secession  sentiments.  Il<-  talks  still  of  some  Northern 
cousin  of  his,  older  than  himself,  and  with  children  now 
almost-  old  enough  for  him  to  marry,  but  who  was  an  old 
sweetheart  of  his,  and  for  her  sake  he  has  a  kindly  feel- 
ing toward  all  the  people  of  the  North.  Il<  does  not  think 
he  cares  to  hang  all  Yankees,  hut  credits  them  with  vir- 
tues not  generally  admitted  hy  devotees  of  secession. 
Lord  has  lost  a  cousin  lately  —  a  Mrs.  Walker,  I  think 
—  only  a  short  time  married.  I  do  not  douht  that  all 
this  will  interest  Cousin  Louisa  and  Horace. 

This  letter  is  short,  but  I  trust  satisfactory,  as  I  have 
good  health  and  spirits  to  communicate.  I  have  received 
Lilly's  letter,  and  will  send  no  messages  to  her  until  I 
can  answer  it  at  length.  May  she  be  very  happy  though, 
should  the  chances  and  perils  of  war  forbid  our  meeting 
again.     Good-bye,  many  times  good-bye. 

Love  to  all  the  dear  friends  who  have  always  been  so 
kind  to  me. 

Next  I  shall  hope  to  write  from  Charleston. 

Very  afFec'y., 

Will. 

Landing  on  James  Island 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  390. 

The  troops  were  landed  on  James  Island,  June  3d.  "They  were  put 
on  shore  in  small  boats,  which  were  insufficient  in  number,  and  made 
the  landing  slow  and  laborious.  As  soon  as  a  few  companies  were  ashore, 
Gen.  Stevens  advanced  with  them,  drove  back  the  enemv  who  were  in 
considerable  force,  after  a  sharp  action  captured  three  guns  which  they 
were  moving  back  to  their  inner  line,  and  established  his  permanent 
picket  line  two  and  a  half  miles  from  the  river,  running  diagonally  across 
the  island  from  Big  Folly  Creek  to  the  Stono  near  Grimball's." 


1 52  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

Headquarters   2d    Division, 

James    Island,   June    10th,    1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  saw  a  few  moments  ago  a  mail-bag  walking  off  — 
hailed  it,  and  learned  that  it  was  going  home,  and  per- 
suaded it  to  wait  a  few  seconds  until  I  could  inform  you 
that  I  was  still  safe  in  limb  and  life,  though  we  have  brisk 
times  in  our  new  position.  Genl.  Stevens  you  will  notice 
now  has  charge  of  a  division.  It  is  a  temporary  arrange- 
ment arising  out  of  the  necessities  of  the  case,  but  I  hope 
it  may  result  in  his  confirmation  as  Major-General.  I 
cannot  yet  say  if  we  are  surely  to  reach  Charleston,  but 
hope  so.  The  fact  is,  I  believe  Gen.  Rosecrans  was 
not  far  wrong  when  he  charged  Genl.  Benham  with 
cowardice,  drunkenness,  and  lying.  He  was  Court  Mar- 
tialed  and  acquitted,  and  sent  down  here  to  take  charge 
of  our  little  army.  Right  or  wrong  all  despise  him.  No 
one  trusts  him.  If  we  take  Charleston  it  will  not  be  his 
fault.  This  is  rather  bitter,  but  it  is  a  shame  to  put  such 
men  in  command. 

Please  send  Horace  $9.00  as  my  subscription  for  the  Post. 
I  agreed  to  write  an  occasional  letter  for  that  journal,  but 
have  never  done  so.     I  shall  feel  better  when  it  is  paid. 

When  this  matter  of  taking  Charleston  shall  be  either 
brilliantly  consummated,  thanks  to  Wright  and  Stevens, 
or  shall  have  fizzled  out  through  the  folly  of  Hunter  and 
Benham,  if  still  safe  in  life  and  limb,  I  trust  I  shall  see 
you  once  more,  but  Quien  Sabe.  We  have  fighting  every 
day  now  and  new  victims  swell  the  list  of  the  battlefield. 

Give  my  best  love,  my  darling  mother,  to  my  sisters 
and  all  my  dear  friends. 

Your  affec.  and  sleepy  son, 

Will. 


WAR   LETTERS  15? 

"Life  of  General  I  mac  I .  Stevens,     Vol.  II,  f.  393. 

"In  a  letter  to  his  wife,  dated    [une  nth,  General  Steveni 

expression  to  Ms  disgust  at  the  incompetents  set  over  him: 

" '  I  am  not  in  very  good  spirits  to-night,  for  the  reason  thai  I  havi 
commanders,  Hunter  and  Benham,  who  are  imbecile,  vacillating,  and 
utterly  unfit  to  command.  Why  it  has  been  my  fortune  to  be  plai  'd  in 
positions  where  I  was  of  little  account,  and  to  be  subjei  ted  to  so'  h  extreme 
mortification  and  annoyance,  is  beyond  my  imagining.  .  .  .  No  proper 
use  is  intended  to  be  made  ol  me,  and  as  everybody  is  in  the  humor  to 
speak  highly  of  my  abilities,  I  shall  he  held  in  part  responsible  for  the 
follies  of  others.  Benham  is  an  ass  —  a  dreadful  man,  of  no  earthly 
use  except  as  a  nuisance  and  obstruction.'" 
A  few  days  later  be  writes: 

"We  are  now  attempting  an  enterprise  for  which  our  force  is  entirely 
inadequate.      The  want  of  a  proper  commander  is  fearful." 


[Battle  of  Secessionville  on  James  Island] 
(To  John  Adams) 

Headquarters  2d  Division, 
James  Island,  June  17th,   1862. 
My  dear  Uncle: 

I  write  to  impose  a  solemn  duty  upon  you,  which  in- 
volves the  lives  of  thousands  of  brave  men. 

Brig. -Gen.  Benham  is  a  native  of  the  State  of  Conn., 
and  I  understand  it  is  to  his  native  state  he  owes  his 
present  position.  There  is  only  one  way  for  the  State 
to  atone  for  so  fatal  a  blunder  —  only  one  way  to  wipe 
out  the  obloquy  the  State  deserves  at  putting  such  a  man 
in  power  —  and  that  is  to  give  its  weight  to  his  immedi- 
ate removal.  Let  there  be  no  mercy  shown  to  one  who 
shows  no  mercy.  He  must  be  crushed  at  once,  or  we  are 
all  lost,  and  even  as  it  is,  God  only  knows  whether  his 
folly  may  not  involve  us  in  destruction  before  any  action 
can  be  taken.  I  will  not  enumerate  half  the  examples 
of  imbecility  he  has  shown,  or  the  wickedness  of  which 


154  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

he  has  been  guilty.  The  last  act  is  too  real.  His  folly 
has  culminated  in  one  damning  enterprise  which  must 
make  him  eternally  infamous. 

You  will  learn  from  the  steamer  conveying  this,  of 
the  shocking  battle  of  the  16th.  There  will  be  a  struggle 
to  suppress  the  truth,  to  call  fair  names,  and  to  shift  the 
responsibility,  but  the  blood  of  the  murdered  men  cries 
out  for  vengeance.  This  is  no  rhetoric.  It  is  solemn 
truth.  The  ill-fated  enterprise  to  this  island  has  been 
characterized  by  the  grossest  mismanagement,  and  the 
men  —  poor  dumb  creatures  —  have  had  to  suffer  priva- 
tion, exposure,  and  death,  where  no  excuse  can  be  pleaded 
in  extenuation. 

On  the  night  of  the  15th,  Genl.  Benham  assembled 
his  officers  in  council.  Generals  Wright,  Stevens  and 
Williams  were  present.  He  unfolded  to  them  his  plan 
of  taking  the  Enemy's  Battery  by  storm.  It  was  in  vain 
that  the  other  officers  entered  their  earnest  protest  against 
a  needless  work  of  slaughter.  It  was  useless  to  suggest 
that  his  object  could  be  effected  in  other  ways.  His 
decree  was  absolute  that  the  work  must  be  stormed  in 
front  —  and  for  what  ?  Because  visions  of  another  Donel- 
son  or  Newberne  had  smothered  in  his  breast  every 
sentiment  of  mercy.  A  success  would  be  but  little  gain 
to  the  country,  but  the  eclat  might  make  Benham  a  Major- 
General.  Men  might  die  to  win  a  needless  victory,  could 
only  his  foolish  vanity  be  gratified. 

His  orders  were  obeyed,  and  the  next  morning's  work 
attests  their  folly.  But  even  then  all  might  not  have 
been  lost,  had  not  his  conduct  in  the  field  been  marked 
by  weakness,  vacillation,  and  imbecility. 

When  the  action  was  over,  Genl.  Benham  tried  to  say 
that  it  was  only  a  reconnoissance.     If  this  be  so,  then 


WAR    LI'.TTKKS  155 

let  us  have  a  General  in  command,  who  can  reconnoitre 

without  the  sacrifice  of  an  eighth  of  the  force  engaged. 
700  killed,  wounded,  and  missing!  Lei  the  dead  who 
died  nobly  have  a  voice,  I  say.  Lei  the  wounded  lying 
on  their  beds  of  pain,  plead  their  sufferings.     Lei  th 

who  lie  in  the  prison  houses  of  tin  enemy  cry  all  shame, 
shame  to  a  General  who   makes  such  a  reconnoissancel 

We  are  growing  weary  of  patriotism.  We,  who  would 
have  liked  to  have  died  to  show  our  love  to  our  country, 
begin  to  sicken  at  the  thought  our  country  loves  us  so 
little,  as  to  leave  our  fate  to  the  control  of  a  man,  already 
branded  ...  It  is  as  true  as  Holy  Writ,  that  our 
bravest  men  will  never  fight  again  with  Benham  in 
command. 

Don't  be  deceived  by  printed  reports  of  what  took 
place  on  the  16th.  It  was  a  terribly  disastrous  affair, 
and  remember  the  author  of  it. 

I  wish  the  public  safety  would  allow  me  to  publish 
to  all  what  I  write  you.  I  do  not  fear  the  consequences 
if  it  be  shown  boldly  to  Benham  himself.  But  I  beg  of 
you  to  do  what  you  can  in  this  matter.  Press  it  with 
Governor  Buckingham.  Get  Dr.  Grant  to  help  you. 
Let  the  influential  men  help  you,  and  for  God's  sake  act 
quick,  or  the  army  here  is  sacrificed,  and  we  will  begin  to 
investigate  too  late. 

I  remain, 

AfFec'y.  but  sadly,  Your  nephew, 

W.  T.  Lusk, 
Capt.  &  A.  D.  C. 


156  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK. 

[Battle  of  Secessionville  on  James  Island] 

James  Island,  June  17th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Yesterday  was  for  us  a  hard,  cruel,  memorable  day, 
memorable  for  its  folly  and  wickedness,  memorable  for 
the  wanton  sacrifice  of  human  life  to  gratify  the  silly 
vanity  of  a  man  already  characterized  .  .  .  You  have 
heard  already  from  rebel  sources,  I  doubt  not,  of  yes- 
terday's disaster.  I  can  only  say  that  the  plan  of  the 
attack  was  ordered  by  Gen.  Benham  in  direct  defiance  of 
his  subordinate  Generals'  opinion.  Gen.  Wright,  Gen. 
Stevens  and  Gen.  Williams  pronounced  on  the  evening 
of  the  15th,  the  project  of  storming  the  battery  attacked, 
as  conceived  in  utter  folly.  They  entered  their  earnest 
protest  against  the  whole  affair.  But  Benham  was  ex- 
cited by  stories  of  Donelson  and  Newberne,  and  would 
not  yield.  Had  the  fort  been  taken,  it  would  have  done 
us  no  good,  except  that  we  could  have  spiked  the  three 
guns  it  contained,  but  had  it  been  taken,  the  eclat,  per- 
haps, would  have  made  Benham  a  Major-General,  and 
for  this  contemptible  motive  between  six  and  seven  hun- 
dred men  strewed  the  field,  dead  and  dying.  I  do  not 
know  how  I  escaped  unhurt  —  it  must  have  been  your 
prayers,  mother  —  but  this  I  know,  that  sixteen  boys  of 
my  company  were  killed  or  wounded,  fighting  nobly, 
fighting  like  heroes  on  the  parapet  of  the  work,  but  fight- 
ing vainly  to  give  a  little  reputation  to  .  .  .  Mother, 
when  I  see  their  pale  fingers  stiffened,  their  poor  speech- 
less wounds  bleeding,  do  you  wonder  at  the  indignation 
that  refuses  to  be  smothered — that  my  blood  should 
flow  feverishly   to  think   that  the   country  which  our  sol- 


WAR   LETTERS  157 

diers  love  so  well,  loves  them  so  little  as  to  leave  them 
to  the  mercies  of  a  man  of  ...  I  can  give  you  no 
particulars  of  the  affair  now  — VOU  will  read  oi  it  in  the 
papers.  I  must  busy  myself  to-day  to  assist  m  getting  the 
requisite  information  for  (Jen.  Stevens's  report. 

I  do  not  know  whether  I  can  return  in  fuly.  It  hardly 
looks  as  though  I  should  he  able  to  leave  before  Charleston 
is  taken. 

A  thousand  kisses  for  my  dear  sisters.  May  Lilly's 
life  be  very  happy.  Ever  so  much  love  for  the  children. 
Bless  them. 

Tell  Walter  that  when  galloping  across  the  field  yes- 
terday I  saw  a  sword  and  scabbard  lying  in  my  path.  I 
looked  instinctively  at  my  side,  and  found,  when  or  how 
I  cannot  say,  my  sword-belt  had  been  torn  or  cut,  and  the 
sword  was  gone,  but  you  can  understand  the  pleasure  I 
experienced  at  discovering  the  sword  in  my  path  was 
Walter's  gift,  which  I  strangely  recovered. 

Good-bye.     I  have  much  to  do  to-day.     Capt.  Rock- 
well's Battery  did  excellent  service  yesterday. 
Lovingly  and  thankfully, 

Your  son, 

Will. 


Battle  of  Secessionville  on  James  Island, 
June  16th,  1862. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  399. 

"Benham  .  .  .  had  received  positive  orders  from  Hunter  not  to 
fight  a  battle  .  .  .  General  Hunter  returned  to  Hilton  Head  for  a  short 
visit.  In  his  absence,  in  an  evil  hour,  General  Benham  took  it  into  his 
head  that  he  might  take  the  Secessionville  fort." 

Page  412.  "The  confederate  loss  all  told  was  204.  The  Union  loss 
aggregated  685,  of  which  Stevens's  column  suffered  529;  Williams's 
Brigade,  152;  Wright's  Division,  4.  .  .  .  The  Highlanders  lost  no  out 


158  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

of  484,  notwithstanding  which  they  withdrew  in  good  order,  and  brought 
off  60  of  their  wounded,  some  of  their  dead,  and  their  two  prisoners." 

Page  414.  "The  chief  reason  for  the  failure  was  the  deadly  fire  from 
the  woods  and  cover  behind  the  fort." 

Page  415.  "For  his  wrong-headed  and  disobedient  conduct  Benham 
was  placed  under  arrest  by  General  Hunter  and  sent  North." 

"  Rebellion  Record  "  Vol.  V,  p.  211  of  Documents. 
General  Stevens's  Report. 

"The  strictest  orders  were  given  to  maintain  the  most  perfect  silence, 
for  each  regiment  to  follow  the  preceding  regiment  within  supporting 
distance,  and  to  rely  exclusively  upon  the  bayonet  in  encountering  the 
enemv,  resorting  to  firing  only  in  case  of  manifest  necessity. 

"At  the  first  break  of  day,  or  about  4  o'clock,  it  being  a  dark  and 
cloudy  morning,  the  entire  command  was  in  motion.  .  .  .  My  Aide-de- 
Camp,  Captain  William  T.  Lusk,  guided  the  28th  Massachusetts.  The 
command  pushed  forward,  surprised  and  captured  the  pickets  at  the  house 
occupied  by  them,  entered  the  fields  beyond,  and  as  they  came  within  the 
effective  range  of  grape  and  musketry,  pushed  forward  into  line  of  battle. 
.  .  .  The  Highlanders,  led  by  Morrison,  seeing  the  hot  fire  to  which 
the  Eighth  Michigan  was  exposed,  pushed  forward  at  the  double-quick 
.  .  .  gained  the  parapet  .  .  .  and  shot  down  the  enemy  whilst  serving 
their  guns.  .  .  .  The  front  on  which  the  attack  was  made  was  narrow, 
not  over  200  yards  in  extent,  stretching  from  the  marsh  on  the  one  side 
to  the  marsh  on  the  other.  It  was  at  the  saddle  of  the  peninsula,  the 
ground  narrowing  very  suddenly  at  this  point  from  our  advance.  .  .  . 
The  whole  space  at  the  saddle  was  occupied  by  the  enemy's  work,  im- 
practicable abatis  on  either  hand,  with  carefully  prepared  trous  de  loup, 
and  in  front  a  ditch  seven  feet  deep,  with  a  parapet  of  hard-packed  earth, 
having  a  relief  of  some  nine  feet  above  the  general  surface  of  the  ground. 
On  the  fort  were  mounted  six  guns,  covering  the  field  of  our  approach. 
The  whole  interior  of  the  work  was  swept  by  fire  from  the  rifle-pits  and 
defences  in  the  rear.  ...  It  will  thus  be  seen  that  the  whole  front  was 
scarcely  enough  to  deploy  a  single  regiment.  ...  It  was  during  a  period 
of  less  than  one-half  hour  —  from  five  to  half  past  five  o'clock  —  that 
the  greater  portion  of  the  casualties  occurred.  .  .  .  The  remainder  of  the 
regiments  were  gallantly  lead  .  .  .  that  of  the  Highlanders  by  their 
gallant  Lieut.-Col.  Morrison,  who,  wounded  in  the  head  on  the  parapet, 
seemed  only  the  more  eager  to  lead  on  to  the  assault.  .  .  .  Not  a  fugitive 
did  I  observe  passing  from  the  battlefield.  .  .  .  My  troops  were  then 
withdrawn  in  good  order.  .  .  . 

"To  my  own  staff  I  am  under  the  greatest  obligations.  .  .  .  My 
assistant  Adj. -Gen.,  Capt.  Hazard  Stevens,  was  in  all  parts  of  the  field 
carrying  my  orders  and  bringing  me  information,  to  the  great  exposure 
of  his   life,    as   was  Aide,  Capt.  William  T.  Lusk.  .  .  .  Capt.  A.   P. 


WAR    LK'ITKRS  159 

Rockwell,  of  the  Connecticut  battery,  deserves  paiticulai  mention  for 
his  gallant  bearing  and  skilful  handling  "f  his  gum  on  thai  field.  1 
desire,  in  this  offii  ial  report,  to  place  on  re<  ord  my  obj<  1  tiom  to  1 
early  morning  art; icks.  I  hey  are  justifiable,  in  my  humble  judgment, 
only  under  extraordinary  circumstances.  Hie  troops  gel  necessarily 
but  little  rest  the  night  I"  fore,  and  they  go  to  the  work  fatigued  and  ex- 
cited. .  .  .  I  must  confess  that  the  coolness  and  mobility  of  all  the  troops 
engaged  on  the  i6th  surprised  me.    And  I  cannot  but  believe,  had  propei 

use  been  made  of  the  ail  illei  y,  guns  from  the  navy,  and  OUI  own  battl  ties, 
fixed  and  field;  had  the  position  been  gradually  approai  bed  and  i  an-fully 
examined,  and  the  attack  made  nun  h  later  in  the  day,  when  our  bat- 
teries had  had  their  full  effect,  all  which,  you  will  recollect,  were  Btrongly 
urged  by  me  upon  Gen.  Benham,  the  evening  of  the  conference,  the 
result  might  have  been  very  different." 

The  following  is  taken  from  a  description  of  the  Battle  of  James 
Island  in  a  New  York  paper: 

"Troops  never  fought  with  more  steadiness  and  determined  bravery 
than  our  men  did  yesterday.  1  heir  pluck  and  obedience  to  orders  are 
worthy  of  the  highest  commendation.  Captain  Lusk,  Aide-de-Camp 
to  General  Stevens,  led  and  placed  in  position  the  Twenty-eighth  Massa- 
chusetts at  the  edge  of  the  abatis,  and  had  a  horse  shot  under  him." 

Editorial  in  "Norwich  Bulletin"  of  June  30,  1862. 

"  It  is  cheering  to  know  that  under  the  terrible  fire  of  the  rebel  bat- 
tery our  own  Conn.  7th,  under  the  gallant  Col.  Hawley,  stood  bravely  up 
to  their  work,  and  never  faltered  or  wavered,  while  our  Conn.  Light 
Battery  under  Capt.  Rockwell  performed  all  the  work  assigned  to  them 
with  the  greatest  skill  and  bravery.  The  Conn.  7th,  Michigan  8th, 
and  New  York  79th  were  in  advance,  and  did  the  heaviest  of  the  fight- 
ing and  suffered  the  heaviest  losses.  Conn,  has  no  reason  to  be  ashamed 
or  blush  for  the  conduct  of  her  sons  before  Charleston." 


"Norwich  Bulletin,"  July  1st,  1862. 

"  Capt.  Wm.  T.  Lusk,  formerly  of  this  city,  a  grandson  of  the  late 
Richard  Adams,  Esq.,  was,  in  the  late  battle  on  James  Island,  acting 
Aide-de-camp  to  Gen.  Stevens.  He  is  mentioned  in  the  reports  for  gal- 
lant and  meritorious  conduct  on  the  field.  Letters  from  Hilton  Head 
received  since  the  battle,  speak  in  the  most  glowing  terms  of  his  braverv 
and  disregard  of  danger.  One  letter  says  'He  seemed  omnipresent.' 
He  was  Lieut,  in  the  N.  Y.  79th  until  promoted  to  a  position  on  Gen. 
Stevens's  staff,  and  was  with  that  Regiment  at  the  Battle  of  Bull  Run 
where  he  distinguished  himself  also  bv  braverv  and  coolness,  and  received 
honorable  mention  from  his  superior  officers." 


160  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

Headquarters  ist  Division, 
Battery  Island,  June  25th,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  have  received  your  kind  letters  with  their  urgent 
requests  from  both  you  and  Lilly  to  be  present  at  the  great 
affair  which  is  to  take  place  in  July.  How  I  would  like  to 
be  there,  you  can  well  divine,  yet  the  fates  never  seem 
to  favor  my  leaving  my  post.  With  all  quiet  in  Beaufort 
I  had  my  hopes,  with  all  in  turmoil  here  my  chances  seem 
but  small,  and  yet  there  are  some  who  have  not  been 
half  the  time  in  the  service  I  have,  who  have  visited  their 
homes  once,  twice,  and  are  now  going  home  again.  That 
is  a  sort  of  luck  some  people  have,  a  sort  of  luck  which 
does  not  favor  me.  Yet  there  will  be  a  time  I  suppose 
when  it  will  be  pleasant  to  remember  I  was  never  absent 
from  duty,  though  I  cannot  see  that  strictness  in  such 
respects  is  held  in  any  special  honor  now.  You  must 
tell  Lilly  I  will  think  of  her  with  all  a  brother's  feeling 
of  love,  when  the  day  comes.  I  will  see  that  I  am  properly 
represented  at  the  table  which  bears  her  marriage  gifts. 
I  will  dream  of  the  orange  flowers  that  bind  the  brow 
of  the  bride  and  will  wish  them  —  the  bride  and  groom — 
God  speed.  I  will  wish  them  a  brave  career,  and  will 
rejoice  that  they  do  not  fear  to  face  the  future  together. 
I  have  no  patience  with  that  excessive  prudence  which 
would  barter  the  blessings  of  youth  and  happiness  and 
love,  for  some  silly  hope  of  wealth,  and  the  happiness 
wealth  can  give  to  hearts  seared  with  selfishness  and 
avarice.  If  misfortunes  come,  will  they  be  heavier  when 
borne  together  ?  And  are  men  less  likely  to  prosper 
when  they  have  something  more  than  themselves  for 
which  to  toil  ?   And  when  one  man  and  one  woman  are 


WAR    LETTERS  161 

brave  enough  to  show  they  have  no  fear,  bui  are  willing 
to  trust,  '  Bravo  1"  say  I,  "and  God  grant  them  all  that 

they  deserve." 

My  coat  and  prints  have  come.  All  very  well,  only  the 
coat  is  about  six  inches  bigger  round  the  waist  than  I 
am.    There  are  tailors  around  the  camp  though  who  can 

remedy  so  excellent  though  rather  ungraceful  a  f.iult. 

I  have  had  a  letter  from  Hall  lately,  who  seems  quite 
happy.  On  this  island,  dear  Mother,  there  are  secret, 
hidden,  insidious  foes  which  undermine  one's  happiness. 
We  are  truly  in  the  midst  of  enemies  which  give  no  quar- 
ter, whose  ruthless  tastes  blood  alone  can  satisfy.  Now 
I  am  not  alluding  to  the  human  "Seceshers" —  they 
are  only  mortal  —  but  the  insect  kingdom.  What  a 
taste  they  have  for  Union  blood!  Mosquito  bars  are  use- 
less. They  form  breaches,  and  pierce  every  obstruc- 
tion imagination  can  invent,  when  they  once  scent  Union 
blood.  Flies  march  over  one  in  heavy  Battalions  — 
whole  pounds  of  them  at  a  time.  Mosquitoes  go  skir- 
mishing about  and  strike  at  every  exposed  position.  Sand- 
flies make  the  blood  flow  copiously.  Fleas  form  in 
Squadrons  which  go  careering  over  one's  body  leaving  all 
havoc  behind.  Ticks  get  into  one's  hair.  Ants  creep 
into  one's  stockings.  Grasshoppers  jump  over  one's 
face.  You  turn  and  brush  your  face.  You  writhe  in 
agony.  You  quit  a  couch  peopled  with  living  horrors. 
You  cry  for  mercy!  —  In  vain.  These  critters  are 
"Secesh."  They  give  no  quarter.  You  rush  wildly 
about.  You  look  for  the  last  ditch.  Until  utterly  ex- 
hausted you  sink  into  unrefreshing  sleep.  Then  begins 
a  wild  scene  of  pillage.  Millions  of  thirsty  beings,  long- 
ing for  blood,  drink  out  one's  life  gluttonously.  Enough! 
Why  harass  you  with  these  dismal  stories  ? 


1 62  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Benham  has  been  sent  home  under  arrest.  The  last 
thing  he  did  on  leaving  Hilton  Head  was  to  lie.  He 
doubtless  has  not  discontinued  the  practice  since. 

My  love  to  Mary  and  Lilly,  the  little  boys  (how  I  would 
like  to  see  them),  and  all  my  dear  friends.  I  have  been 
several  times  with  a  flag  of  truce  to  the  enemy,  concern- 
ing our  prisoners  in  their  hands.  In  all  these  interviews 
I  heard  of  Sam  Lord.  I  wished  to  see  him  very  much, 
but  permission  was  not  granted.  I  was  allowed,  however, 
to  write  him  concerning  Miss  Alice  Mintzin<i's  welfare. 
The  Colonel  of  his  Battalion  —  Lamar  —  was  badly 
wounded  in  our  late  engagement.  Genl.  Stevens  has 
mentioned  me  handsomely  in  his  official  report  of  the 
fight,  but  he  has  done  the  same  to  all  his  staff. 

Very  affec'y-  your  Son, 

Will. 


"  War  of  the  Rebellion,"  Series  I,  Vol.  XIV,  p.  358. 

Hdqrs.  U.  S.  Forces  North.    Dist.  Dept.  South, 

James  Island,  S.  C,  June  20,  1862. 
General  Isaac  I.  Stevens, 

Commanding  Second  Division,  James  Island,  S.  C. 

General:  I  have  received  yours  of  this  date,  stating  that  no  arrange- 
ment has  been  made  with  the  Confederate  officers  regarding  cessation 
of  operations  on  account  of  flags  of  truce,  and  that  you  had  sent  Cap- 
tain Lusk  for  instructions  as  to  further  proceedings. 

I  have  seen  Captain  Lusk,  and  from  what  I  learn  from  him  and  from 
the  letter  of  General  W.  D.  Smith,  which  Captain  Lusk  delivered  to 
me,  I  do  not  see  that  any  further  action  is  necessary,  unless  it  may  be 
in  regard  to  exchange  of  prisoners.  I  do  not  know  what  instructions 
you  may  have  had  from  General  Benham  on  this  point,  but  you  are  no 
doubt  aware  that  exchanges  are  prohibited  by  War  Department  order 
except  under  instructions  from  the  Secretary  of  War. 

Please  send  me  copies  of  any  instructions  in  this  matter  you  may 
have  received  from  General  Benham,  or  if  they  were  verbal,  then  of  your 
letters  on  the  subject. 


WAR    LKTTKRS  163 

I  send  you  copy  of  a  letter  from  ( leneral  I  lunter  to  G<  in  ral  B<  nham, 
directing  the  lattei  to  turn  ovei  the  1  ommand  to  m<  and  r<  turn  to  Hilton 
Head. 

Very  respectfully,  your  obedient  servant, 

II.  ( i.  Wright, 
l'r igaater-General,  Commanding. 

Headquarters, 
U.  S.  Forces  en  Route  to  F.  Monroe, 

July   1 2th,   1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

When  I  wrote  you  a  few  hurried,  peevish  lines,  by  the 
last  steamer,  I  then  had  little  thought  we  were  so  soon 
to  be  summoned  to  a  different  sphere  of  action,  and  that, 
had  my  longing  to  see  you  at  home  been  really  gratified, 
I  would  have  returned  only  to  be  mortified  by  being 
absent  from  duty  at  a  time  when  every  man  should  be 
standing  steadily  at  his  post.  So  you  see  my  lucky  star 
is  always  dominant.  Just  when  I  thought  my  fate 
intolerable,  I  was  merely  being  providentially  detained 
that  nothing  might  prevent  me  from  the  fulfilment  of  my 
duty.  Ten  Regiments  from  the  Department  of  the  South, 
six  under  Stevens  and  four  under  Wright,  are  ordered  to 
Fortress  Monroe,  we  know  not  yet  whether  to  reinforce 
Pope  or  McClellan.  Few  of  us  regret  to  leave  this  unholv 
soil  and  wretchedly  mismanaged  department,  where  we 
have  been  sure  only  of  mismanagement  and  disgrace.  I 
am  sorry  Rockwell  could  not  go  with  us.  He  would 
have  liked  to  have  done  so,  but  a  demand  was  made 
for  infantry  alone. 

It  is  a  good  thing  for  me  that  I  have  escaped  from  the 
Southern  climate,  having  been  long  enough  exposed  to 
feel  as  though  every  fibre  of  my  body  was  involved  in  a 
malarious  atmosphere.     A  change  of  climate  and   a  per- 


i64  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

sistent  employment  of  quinine,  the  Doctor  says,  are  all  I 
need,  though  were  times  less  stirring,  he  would  probably 
prescribe  in  addition  a  few  days  at  home.  I  shall  prob- 
ably lose  the  letters  you  will  write  relative  to  Lilly's 
wedding,  but  you  must  not  forget  to  let  me  know  all 
about  it  in  whatever  new  sphere  I  may  be  placed.  I 
suppose  you  had  better  address  the  first  letter  to  the  care 
of  General  Stevens  near  Fortress  Monroe,  and  so  soon 
as  may  be,  I  will  let  you  know  a  more  definite  address. 

I  enclose  the  $25.00  for  Lilly's  bridal  gift.  I  could  not 
enclose  it  in  my  last,  as  it  was  then  some  time  since  I 
had  seen  the  paymaster.  I  hope  I  may  have  an  oppor- 
tunity to  see  you  all  this  summer,  but  it  looks  dubious. 
Next  to  Lilly's  wedding,  I  was  very  anxious  to  be  present 
at  my  class  meeting,  which  takes  place  the  end  of  this 
month.  Hall  will  be  there  and  many  old  friends.  It 
will  seem  strange  enough  to  get  among  civilized  people 
once  more,  and  there  will  be  so  many  changes  too.  Walter, 
an  aged  paterfamilias.  Lilly  and  Hall,  both  old  domestic 
bodies.  Hunt  in  a  new  house.  Horace  alone  will  be 
left  unchanged. 

Are  any  of  my  friends  desirous  of  making  a  profitable 
speculation  ?  A  sure  and  magnificent  fortune  may  be 
realized  from  the  sale  of  ginger-pop  at  Hilton  Llead. 
Blind  Dennis  is  doing  a  flourishing  business  in  the  lemon- 
ade line,  and  will  certainly  before  long  be  putting  up  a 
superb  house  on  Washington  Street,  in  Burdick's  best 
style.  The  ginger-pop  trade,  I  predict,  will  be  one  of 
the  most  remunerative  branches  of  business  ever  opened 
at  Port  Royal.  It  even  bids  fair  to  prove  as  handsome 
a  thing  as  negro-philanthropy,  which  in  shrewd  hands 
has  proved  a  most  capital  paying  business,  and  then  the 
sale    of  ginger-pop    is    eminently    more    respectable.     At 


WAR    LETTERS  165 

any  rate  it  is  a  pet  idea  of  mine,  and  I  would  like  to    ;  1 
the  experiment  tried. 

Well,  good-bye.  I  hope  to  hear  good  news  on  arriving 
at  Fortress   Monroe.      Love  to  all. 

14th.      Still  on  shipboard  l>ut   near  Fortress  Monroe. 

Lilly's  wedding  day.  Miles  of  friends  —  little  chil- 
dren's voices  —  church  hells  —  sweet  thoughts.  I  shall 
feast  to-day  for  all  that  though,  on  hard  tack  and  salt  horse 
with  a  quinine  pill  by  way  of  dessert.     So  goes  the  world. 

Good-bye,  my  dear  Mother.     Blessings  on  you  all. 

Lovingly, 

Will. 


"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  421. 

"On  Bcnham's  arrest  General  Wright  succeeded  to  the  command 
as  next  in  rank,  and  field-works  to  protect  the  camps  were  commenced, 
and  considerable  work  done  upon  them,  when  General  Hunter  wisely 
decided  to  withdraw  from  James  Island." 

Page  423.  General  Stevens  and  his  command  "reached  Fortress 
Monroe  on  the  16th"  (July),  "debarked  at  Newport  News,  and  went 
into  camp.  .  .  .  General  Burnside  had  just  arrived  here  with  8,000 
troops  from  North  Carolina,  and  the  ninth  corps  was  organized  from  the 
two  commands,  .  .  .  General    Burnside  commanding  the   corps." 

"The  transfer  to  Virginia  was  the  very  movement  that  General 
Stevens  recommended  to  the  President  in  a  letter  dated  July  8th, 
in  which  he  wrote:  '.  .  .  The  crisis  of  the  war  is  in  Virginia.  There 
throw  your  troops.  There  signally  defeat  and  destroy  the  enemy.  "\  ou 
strike  Charleston  and  Savannah  by  striking  Richmond.  .  .  .'" 

Page  422.  Stevens  wrote  to  his  wife  July  14th:  "McClellan  has 
unquestionably  met  with  a  very  serious  check.  .  .  .  The  army  should 
never  have  been  divided,  and  the  route  should  not  have  been  by  Fortress 
Monroe.  ...  I  am  afraid  the  Confederates  will  by  a  rapid  counter- 
march fall  upon  Pope  with  overwhelming  force.  I  think,  so  far  as  I 
can  gather  the  facts,  that  Pope  should  be  largely  reinforced,  and  that  he 
should  wage  the  campaign.  It  has  also  occurred  to  me  that  the  wisest 
plan  would  be  to  withdraw  McClellan  from  his  present  position,  send 
him  to  the  Potomac,  unite  him  with  Pope,  and  commence  anew." 

Page  424.  "The  verv  movements  he  mentioned  as  best  in  his  letter 
to  his  wife,  were  precisely  the  ones  adopted  immediately  afterwards, 
viz:  the  withdrawal  of  McClellan  and  reinforcement  of  Pope." 


166  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Headquarters  Stevens's  Div. 

Burnside's  Expedition, 
Newport  News,  Va. 

July  20th,   1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  rode  over  yesterday  to  Fortress  Monroe  in  my  old 
clothes.  Maj.  Elliott,  now  Act'g.  Inspector-General  of 
our  Division,  and  others,  were  of  the  party.  On  reaching 
the  Fortress  we  found  a  man  who  for  the  sum  of  fifty 
cents,  gives  you  half  a  dollar's  worth  of  likeness  —  a 
"Cheap  John"  style  of  man  —  and  him  we  concluded  to 
patronize.  I  send  you  the  result.  If  it  has  defects,  I 
have  no  doubt  there  is  fifty  cents  worth  of  truth  in  it. 
The  moustache  and  imperial  in  the  picture  I  consider 
an  improvement  of  the  original,  the  most  considerate  of 
mirrors  being  unable  to  conceal  the  fact  that  these  articles 
of  beauty  are  in  reality  a  bright  plinthic  red.  Next 
week  the  "Cheap  John"  style  of  man  says  he  will  have 
an  apparatus  for  taking  carte-de-vtsite.  If  so,  I  will  put 
on  my  best  clothes,  get  taken,  and  forward  myself  to 
you  in  a  more  presentable  manner. 

I  have  received  a  couple  of  letters  from  you,  one  of  the 
5th,  the  other  of  the  9th,  both  of  which  took  first  a  trip 
to  Port  Royal.  I  hope  my  telegraphic  despatch  may  pre- 
vent any  more  from  traveling  so  far  in  vain. 

I  am  much  obliged  to  my  friends  for  their  kind  thoughts 
and  words  regarding  me.  I'll  tell  you  what,  I  think  I 
ought  to  have  a  place  in  the  Field  of  one  of  the  new  Conn. 
Regiments,  not  that  I  feel  myself  peculiarly  competent 
for  such  a  position,  but  because  I  think  I'll  do  better 
than  those  they  are  likely  to  select.  I  have  been  the  long- 
est in  the  service  of  any  of  my  friends.  I  have  been  oftener 
in  battle  and  been  subject  to  more  vicissitudes,  yet  they 


Captain   Lusk  in   His"Old  Clothes' 

Taken  by  the'"Cheap  Jom n'  Style  of  Man" 


WAR    LK'ITKRS  167 

all  outrank  me.  Matteson  and  Dostei  are  Majors.  My 
commands  a  Regiment.  Harland  commands  a  Brigade. 
Charles  Dodge  lias  a  Regiment.  Rockwell  commands  a 
battery,  and  so  on  all  through  the  list.  Somehow  or 
other  I've  not  been  so  accustomed  to  bringing  up  ai  the 
tail  end  as  to  fancy  it  now.  I  am  delighted,  to  be  sure, 
at  the  success  of  friends.  I  feel  no  envy,  but  would  like 
to  be  a  little  more  upon  an  equality  with  them.  I  0  be 
sure,  by  crawling  along  slowly,  I  have  risen  from  the 
Junior  Lieut,  of  my  Regiment  to  rank  as  the  2d  Cap- 
tain—  that  is  to  say,  from  the  30th  position  in  the  line 
to  the  2d.  Still  I  would  like  a  Major's  position  in  one 
of  the  new  Regiments.  However,  where  I  now  am,  I 
have  responsibility  enough,  I  suppose. 

Benham  being  disposed  of,  my  letter  to  Uncle  John 
has  proved  uncalled  for,  but  I  was  very  indignant  at  the 
time  of  writing  it.  .  .  .  You  may  have  read  something 
of  his  letter  relative  to  Gen.  Stevens.  It  is  unnecessary 
to  characterize  the  whole  as  a  malicious  falsehood.  I 
will  only  mention  one  thing.  Benham  quotes  a  let- 
ter from  Stevens  to  prove  that  he  (Stevens)  approved 
the  reconnoissance  Benham  projected.  I  happen  to 
know  personally  the  note  quoted  was  written  bv 
Stevens  with  regard  to  a  reconnoissance  proposed  by 
Stevens  himself.  This  plan  of  a  reconnoissance  was 
agreed  to  by  the  Generals  in  Council  in  opposition  to  the 
plan  proposed  by  Benham.  Benham  at  first  consented 
to  this,  but  finally  ordered  the  attack  of  the  16th  to  be 
made  as  he  had  originally  proposed.  The  letter  then  of 
Gen.  Stevens  written  regarding  the  Stevens  plan  of  recon- 
noissance, is  used  by  Benham  to  show  that  the  Benham 
plan  met  with  Stevens'  approbation. 

Benham  had  an  unaccountable  aversion  to  Rockwell. 


168  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

When  Rockwell  was  sick,  and  stopping  on  board  the 
steamer  with  the  amiable  General,  Benham  growled  so 
much  about  it,  that  Gen.  Stevens  was  obliged  to  advise 
(privately).  Capt.  Rockwell  to  return  to  his  company, 
though  he  was  still  pale,  weak  and  unable  to  do  duty. 
After  the  battle  of  the  16th,  Benham  wrote  his  report 
complimenting  Capt.  Hamilton  of  the  Regular  Artillery, 
omitting  all  mention  of  Rockwell,  though  Alfred's  Bat- 
tery had  been  the  most  exposed,  and  had  done  nobly. 
This  made  Gen.  Stevens  very  angry,  so  he  informed  Ben- 
ham that  he  must  alter  his  report,  that  his  Command 
should  have  justice,  that  Rockwell  had  acquitted  himself 
as  well  as  Hamilton,  and  that  he  should  have  the  credit 
he  was  entitled  to.  (Somewhat  mixed  way  of  expression, 
but  comprehensible  I  believe).  Gen.  Stevens  being  an 
unpleasant  man  to  deal  with  when  angry,  Benham  got 
frightened   and   altered   his  report. 

Since  commencing  this  letter  I  have  received  one  from 
you  regarding  dear  Lilly's  wedding.  I  could  not  be  there, 
but  you  all  know  how  I  feel.  You  speak  of  $100.00 
having  been  spent  on  Lilly's  wardrobe  by  you  in  my 
behalf.  I  only  mention  it  to  have  it  fully  understood 
that  that  money  must  never  be  returned  to  me. 

Tell  Mrs.  Tyler,  information  I  afterward  received  at 
James  Island,  renders  the  presence  of  Alfred  there,  to 
say  the  least,  very  doubtful. 

I  am  tired,  so  I  will  close.     Love  to  all. 

Affec'y.  your  son, 

W.  T.  Lusk. 


war  lkttkrs  169 

Headquarters  Stevens'  Div. 

July  25th,    1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Your  letter  has  just  reached  me.  I  have  only  to  say 
that  it  has  long  heen  my  earnest  desire  to  serve  with  the 
troops  of  my  native  state  where  there  are  so  many  who 
feel  an  interest  in  me.  I  have  many  times  sought  an 
opportunity  to  change  to  the  troops  from  Old  Connecticut, 
but  the  mutiny  in  the  Highland  Regiment,  then  being 
sent  to  S.  Carolina,  and  other  things  have  prevented. 
Should  I  be  selected  for  the  position  of  Major  in  one  of 
the  new  Regiments,  I  think  I  can  bring  the  necessary 
testimonials  to  my  fitness.  As  a  staff  officer  I  have 
been  too  long  employed  in  teaching  field  officers  their 
duty,  to  feel  many  scruples  about  accepting  the  position, 
if  offered  me.  I  will  see  Gen.  Stevens,  and  ask  his  advice. 
The  mail  is  about  closing  now,  so  good-bye. 

Lovingly, 

Will. 

Headquarters  Stevens'  Div. 

Burnside's  Expedition, 

July  28th,   1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  have  received  no  further  news  from  you  since  your 
last  short  communication  hurriedly  informing  me  of  an 
improvement  in  my  prospects.  I  only  hope  your  intima- 
tion may  be  true.  I  asked  Genl.  Stevens'  advice.  He 
told  me  "unequivocally  to  accept."  I  trust  the  appoint- 
ment may  soon  be  made,  as  I  must  have  some  little  change 
before  I  return  to  life  in  unhealthy  swamps.  My  experi- 
ence in   South   Carolina  has  not   specially   fitted    me  to 


1 7o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

resist  climatic  influences  here.  It  will  be  of  incalculable 
advantage  to  me  if  I  can  get  North  three  or  four  weeks 
this  summer.  I  received  a  letter  from  Walter  yesterday. 
He  seems  to  feel  the  present  critical  condition  of  our  coun- 
try very  much.  Ned  Harland  is  a  near  neighbor  of  mine 
now.  Once  I  have  met  Charley  Breed.  I  saw  Henry 
King  at  Fortress  Monroe  a  few  days  ago.  We  met  and 
parted  as  though  we  were  in  the  habit  of  seeing  one  an- 
other every  day.  Halleck  was  here  day  before  yesterday. 
I  was  greatly  disappointed  in  his  appearance.  Small  and 
farmer-like,  he  gives  a  rude  shock  to  one's  preconceived 
notions  of  a  great  soldier.  He  is  a  striking  contrast  to 
Genl.  Burnside  who  is  rather  a  Chevalier  Bayard  in  ap- 
pearance and  accomplishments.  One  has  opportunities 
on  the  staff  of  seeing  a  great  deal  that  is  interesting,  still 
staff  officers  are  simply  satellites  of  the  General  —  if  any- 
thing else,  they  are  no  use. 

I  see  good  accounts  of  recruiting  in  Connecticut.  I 
trust  this  is  so,  for  we  must  have  those  troops  drilled  and 
ready  for  the  field  as  early  as  possible.  It  is  not  pleasant 
to  think  of  dragging  through  another  winter  in  quarters. 
These  troops  in  Burnside's  corps  are  really  splendid,  de- 
serving indeed  the  name  of  soldiers.  The  Army  looks 
very  different  now  from  what  it  did  last  fall,  previous  to 
our  expedition  down  South. 

I  have  really  nothing  to  write,  except  that  I  am  impa- 
tient to  see  you  all,  and  that  I  remain  as  ever,  with  love 
to  sisters  and  dear  ones  at  home, 

Affectionately, 

Will. 


war  letters  171 

Headquarters  Stevens'  \)w. 

9th  Army  Corps,  Newport  News, 

Aug.  2d,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

As  General  Burnside's  Corps  is  being  transferred  to 
other  scenes,  and  as  our  turn  to  go  on  shipboard  will 
come  to-morrow,  I  take  this  opportunity  to  inform 
you  of  our  intended  change  of  Camp.  I  cannot  tell  you 
where  I  am  going.  I  hope  and  think  we  are  to  join 
Pope.  So  soon  as  we  shall  have  arrived  at  our  desti- 
nation, I  will  let  you  know.  I  fear  a  letter  or  two  may 
be  lost,  but  hope  not. 

The  Governor  of  Connecticut  made  a  most  excellent 
appointment  in  Wm.  Ely  to  the  Colonelcy  of  the  18th 
R.  C.  V.  Cool,  decided,  brave,  enterprising  and  experi- 
enced, he  will  fill  that  position  with  honor  to  himself  and 

to   his  native  State.     will   find   he  has  made 

a  great  mistake  if  he  has  entered  this  new  Regiment 
with  a  view  to  playing  a  high-handed  insubordinate  part. 
There  are  ways  of  bringing  fractious  officers  and  soldiers 
to  a  sense  of  duty  now,  that  were  quite  unknown  at  the 
time  of  the  three  months'  service.  The  news  in  the  papers 
of  yesterday  relative  to  drafting  if  the  contingents  are  not 
filled  by  Aug.  15th,  if  true,  must  -occasion  quite  a  panic 
in  the  North.  I  am  glad  of  it.  This  bounty  business 
is  simply  disgusting.  If  there  is  so  much  spare  money 
to  be  thrown  away,  it  is  better  that  it  should  be  given  to 
those  who  have  borne  the  burden  and  heat  of  the  dav, 
than  to  those  who  enter  at  the  eleventh  hour.  It  speaks 
badly  for  the  patriotism  of  the  North,  if  the  bribes  must 
be  increased  now  to  induce  men  to  serve  their  country 
in  the  hour  of  its  extremest  peril.     I  say  it  is  a  poor  sys- 


1 72  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

tern,  and  believe  in  the  draft  —  the  rich  to  serve  with 
their  wealth,  the  poor  with  their  muscle,  and  the  patriotic 
of  both  classes  the  best  way  that  lies  in  their  power.  By- 
the-way,  I  enclose  for  your  album  a  capital  likeness  of 
Col.  Farnsworth,  of  the  79th  Regt. 

Aug.  3d,  early  in  the  morning.  I  trust  by  the  time  this 
reaches  you,  you  may  ascertain  through  the  papers  our  des- 
tination. I  am  quite  in  the  fog,  but  cling  to  the  fancy  that 
it  must  be  to  join  Pope.  I  am  much  obliged  to  my  friends 
who  are  urging  my  appointment  in  the  new  Regiment. 
Of  course  for  the  present  I  can  only  hold  my  tongue. 
You  cannot  long  to  see  me  more  than  I  do  you.  I  cer- 
tainly would  give  six  months'  pay  for  one  month's  rest. 
It  is  a  good  deal  wearing  to  be  kept  steadily  at  the  wheel 
which  seems  never  to  stop  turning.  However,  I  shall 
hope  for  a  few  days  to  recruit  myself,  if  appointed  to  the 
1 8th.  It  is  really  remarkable  though,  how  my  health 
continues.  I  am  beginning  to  have  strong  faith  in  my 
vitality.  If  there  be  no  other  chance,  why,  I  shall  have 
to  wait  until  next  winter.  I  think  had  I  received  a  short 
leave  of  absence  this  summer  my  usefulness  would  have 
been  much  increased.  I  could  not  have  it,  though  many 
have  been  home  ten  months  out  of  the  twelve.  Of 
course  I  shall  feel  the  prouder  for  it  in  the  end.  Good- 
bye. A  thousand  kisses  judiciously  dispensed  among 
dear  ones  at  home. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 


war  letters  173 

Headquarters  Stevens'  Div. 

9th  Army  Corps, 
Steamer  "Elm  City,"  Aug.  5th,  [862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

Here  we  are  ai  length  at  Acquia  Creek.  Our  desti- 
nation is  Fredericksburg.  Please  direct  your  letters  to 
that  place  in  future.  We  are  exchanging  ar  every  m< 
disease  for  health.  Our  present  position  is  one  of  the 
healthiest  in  Virginia,  so  dear  Mother,  give  yourself  no 
alarm. 

I  received  two  letters  from  you  previous  to  leaving 
Newport  News,  one  written  after  Lilly's  marriage,  which 
had  travelled  down  to  Hilton  Head,  and  the  other  a  letter 
containing  an  account  of  the  kindly  manner  all  speak  of 
me  at  home.  For  the  latter  I  am  grateful  indeed,  though 
I  feel  a  little  puzzled  at  its  extent.  The  first  day  I  landed 
at  Newport  News,  as  I  was  riding  toward  our  camping 
ground,  a  nice,  handsome-looking  young  fellow  stopped 
me,  saying,  "How  are  you  Will?"  I  stopped,  examined 
his  face,  talked,  and  tried  to  discover  who  my  friend 
was.  After  running  through  the  probabilities,  I  said, 
"Why  this  is  Charley  Breed!"  "Yes,"  said  he,  "you 
are  a  good  deal  changed,  but  I  recognized  you  at  once." 
So  we  parted,  promising  soon  to  meet  again.  But 
duty  intervened,  and  the  other  day  I  read  that  he  was 
dead. 

I  received  likewise  a  letter  from  Edward  Stedman,  via 
Hilton  Head,  with  kind  words  of  encouragement  for  me. 

I   have  nothing  more  to  write.     Don't   mind . 

Instead  of  "Speed  the  Plow,"  "Speed  the  Bavonet,"  and 
all  will  be  right  again.  Vive  la  guerre  and  down  with  the 
rebellion.     If  the  South  wishes  to  secede,  they  must  wait 


1 74  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

until  they  ask  it  of  the  North,  not  with  threats,  but  in 
fear  and  trembling. 

Good-bye,  dear  mother, 

Truly  your  affec. 

Will, 
Capt.  &  A.  A.  A.  G. 

which  means  that  the  Assistant  Adjutant-General  is  sick 
and  has  gone  home,  and  that  I  am  acting  in  his  place 
until  his  leave  of  absence  expires. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"  Vol.  II,  p.  425. 

"The  military  authorities  having  decided  to  throw  Burnside's  troops 
up  the  Rappahannock  to  reinforce  Pope,  Gen.  Stevens  sailed  from 
Newport  News  on  Aug.  4th,  debarked  at  Acquia  Creek  on  the  6th,  and 
reached  Fredericksburg  the  same  day." 


Norwich,  August  16th,   1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

After  having  received  intimations  from  various  sources 
of  the  almost  certainty  of  your  appointment  to  the  Lt.- 
Colonelcy  of  the  Eighteenth,  you  may  imagine  the  crush- 
ing disappointment  produced  by  the  order  from  the  War 
Department  forbidding  the  removal  of  all  officers  from 
their  present  positions.  Col.  Ely  is  very  anxious  to  have 
you  with  him.  Ned  Tyler  told  me  that  Ely  said  to  the 
Gov.:  "If  you  will  appoint  the  officers  I  wish,  I  will  be 
responsible  for  the  reputation  of  the  Regiment.  If  how- 
ever you  put  in  mere  politicians  I  cannot."  I  feel  the 
sickness  of  "hope  deferred"  this  morning,  and  my  heart 
is  very  heavy.  Well,  I  cannot  resist  all  influences,  and 
though  I  have  brave  hours,  I  have  times  of  bitter  struggling. 
Well,  this  is  useless  as  well  as  discouraging  to  you.     Par- 


O    o 


WAR    LKTTKKS  i75 

don  me,  my  son.  I  shall  soon  recover  from  tlii\  unworthy 
despondency.  I  am  much  gratified  by  the  interest  shown 
by  your  friends  here.  Mr.  Johnson  (Charlie's  father) 
told  Lillie  the  pressure  upon  the  Gov.  from  Norwich 
people  on  your  behalf  had  been  very  great,  the  matter  was 
now  decided,  and  you  would  probably  be  with  us  next 
week,  still  he  said,  we  must  not  be  too  sure,  for  "tin  n 
many  a  slip  'twixt  the  cup  and  the  lip."  For 
Gen.  Tyler's  affectionate  interest,  I  must  always  be  very 
grateful.  He  has  returned  to  Connecticut  to  take  charge 
of  the  Regiments  now  preparing  in  the  State.  He  has 
taken  great  interest  in  you  always.  Perhaps  I  am  un- 
reasonable in  my  disappointment  at  not  seeing  you,  but 
I  do  feel  you  might  have  been  appointed  earlier,  before 
these  orders  were  issued. 

We  are  all  well,  and  anxiously  watching  for  news  from 
Burnside.  I  have  sent  to  New- York  for  a  flag  to  wave 
fromour  old  home, the  home  of  your  childhood.  I  intended 
it  to  greet  your  return.  I  shall  place  it  over  the  front 
entrance  so  that  all  who  pass  in  or  out,  must  walk  under 
its  folds.  Hunt  just  passing  the  door  called  out,  "give 
my  love  to  Will."  All  are  interested  and  excited  about 
the  new  Regiments.  The  Twenty-second  goes  into 
camp  in  Norwich,  on  the  Fair  Grounds.  Eating,  drink- 
ing, or  sleeping,  our  thoughts  are  on  the  war  and  the 
precious  lives  at  stake,  as  well  as  the  great  issue  involved. 
Bromley  is  Captain  of  a  Company,  and  young  Merwin 
his  first  Lieutenant.  Morton  Hale  is  a  Lieutenant  in 
one  of  the  companies;  he  is  to  be  married  next  Tuesday 
to  Emily  Huntington.  Her  sister  Hannah  was  engaged  to 
Charlie  Breed. 

Good-bye  my  own  dear,  dear  son.  My  whole  trust  is 
placed  in  the  mercy  of  God  to  whom  I  earnestly  pray 


i76  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

for  your  deliverance  from  all  evil.   God  bless  you  wherever 
you  may  be  is  the  cry  of  my  anxious,  loving  heart. 

Always  lovingly, 

Mother. 

New  London  has  furnished  one  private  and  an  Adjutant 
— wants  a  field  officer  besides.  They  have  sent  four  hun- 
dred men  to  the  Fourteenth.  I  have  just  heard  that 
perhaps  the  staff  officers  are  not  included  in  this  order 
from  the  Department.  Gen.  Tyler  will  be  at  home  this 
evening  when  I  shall  learn. 


Headquarters  Stevens's  Div. 
9th  Army  Corps, 

Fredericksburg,  Aug.  19th,  1862. 

My  dearest  Mother: 

Here  we  are,  occupying  a  fine  house  in  the  pleasant 
town  of  Fredericksburg,  with  the  thermometer  standing 
ever  so  high  in  the  shade  among  a  people  whose  glances 
are  at  zero  in  the  hottest  of  this  summer  sunshine.  I 
have  seen  nothing  like  this  before,  except  in  the  single 
City  of  Venice  where  the  feeling  is  so  intense  toward  the 
German  soldiery.  Yet  it  is  not  strange  when  one  thinks 
that  there  are  few  left  beside  women.  The  men  are  away 
fighting  in  the  pride  of  sons  of  the  Old  Dominion,  and 
many  a  family  here  is  clad  in  sombre  colors,  for  the  loss 
of  dear  friends  who  have  lost  their  lives  at  the  hands  of 
"Yankee  Invaders."  So  a  military  occupation  of  a 
disaffected  town  is  less  pleasant  than  the  tented  field. 
We  will  not  remain  a  great  while  though.  We  are  now 
on  the  eve  of  great  events.     God  only  knows  what  the 


WAR    LE'ITKRS  177 

morrow  has  ill  store  for  us.  f  cannot  say  where  T  may  be 
when  I  next,  write,  but  continue  to  direct  to  Stevens' 
Division,  9th  Army  Corps,  and  the  letters  Will  reach  me. 
I  am  sick  at  heart  in  some  respects,  and  utterly  weary  of 
the  miserable  cant  and  whining  of  our  Northern  pn 
It  is  time  that  we  assumed  a  manlier  tone.  We  have 
heard  enough  of  rehel  atrocities,  masked  batteries,  guerillas, 
and  other  lying  humbugs.  Pope's  orders  are  the  last 
unahatahle  nuisance.  Are  we  alone  virtuous,  and  the 
enemy  demons  ?  Let  us  look  at  these  highly  praised  orders 
of  Pope  which  are  to  strike  a  death-blow  at  rebellion. 
Wc  are  henceforth  to  live  on  the  enemy's  country,  and 
to  this  as  a  stern  military  necessity,  I  say  "Amen!"  But 
mother,  do  you  know  what  the  much  applauded  practice 
means  ?  It  means  to  take  the  little  ewe-lamb  —  the  only 
property  of  the  laborer  —  it  means  to  force  from  the  widow 
the  cow  which  is  her  only  source  of  sustenance.  It  means 
that  the  poor,  and  the  weak,  and  the  helpless  are  at  the 
mercy  of  the  strong  —  and  God  help  them!    This  I  say 

is   bad    enough,    but   when    papers   like   the  ,   with 

devilish  pertinacity,  talk  of  ill-judged  lenity  to  rebels 
and  call  for  vigorous  measures,  it  makes  every  feeling 
revolt.  We  want  vigorous  measures  badly  enough  to 
save   us  in  these  evil  times,   but   not  the  measures  the 

urges.      The    last    thing;    needed    in    our    armv    is 

the  relaxing  of  the  bands  of  discipline.  And  yet  our  Press 
is  urging  our  soldiers  everywhere  to  help  themselves  to 
rebel  property,  and  instead  of  making  our  army  a  glorious 
means  of  maintaining  liberty,  would  dissolve  it  into  a 
wretched  band  of  marauders,  murderers,  and  thieves. 
If  property  is  to  be  taken,  let  the  Government  take  it. 
That  is  well  —  but  I  would  have  the  man  shot  who  would 
without  authority  steal  so  much  as  a  fence  rail,  though 


i7S  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

it  were  to  make  the  fire  to  cook  his  food.  I  would  have 
no  Blenkers  and  Sigels  with  their  thieving  hordes,  but  a 
great  invincible  army  like  Cromwell's,  trusting  in  God 
and  marching  on  to  victory. 

Well,  Mother,  it  is  late.  I  am  thankful  we  are  under 
a  commander  who  is  a  noble,  high-minded,  chivalrous 
man.  Honor  to  Burnside!  He  is  as  generous  as  he  is 
brave!  Honor  to  my  own  dear  commander  too,  who 
has  a  heart  to  pity  as  well  as  the  nerve  to  strike. 

Kisses  and  love  in  liberal  doses,  prescribed  in  liberal 
doses  to  his  absent  loving  friends, 

By  your  most  Affec. 

Dr.  Lusk. 

Norwich,  Aug.  23d,  1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

Startling  and  conflicting  rumors  from  the  army  in 
Virginia  render  us  very  uneasy  to-day.  I  will  not  dwell 
upon  them,  but  wait  patiently  until  a  reliable  statement 
comes  to  us.  The  18th  took  its  departure  yesterday. 
.  .  .  Col.  Ely,  I  am  told,  is  not  at  all  pleased.  .  .  . 

Mrs.  Tyler  was  here  last  evening.  I  told  her  I  regretted 
extremely  ever  having  written  you  what  I  had  heard  of 
the  efforts  made  by  your  friends  for  you.  She  replied,  "I 
am  glad  you  did,  and  tell  him  I  say  his  friends  are  full  of 
indignation,  and  my  husband  says  that  he  will  never  again 
propose  an  officer  to  the  Governor."  .  .  .  Our  whole  atten- 
tion is  so  absorbed  by  army  movements  I  have  scarcely 
anything  to  tell  you.  .  .  .  Charlie  Johnson,  Mrs.  T. 
tells  me,  is  very  indignant  in  your  behalf,  as  well  as 
Ned  T.,  Ely,  and  several  others.  ...  It  is  now  elc/en 
days  since  I  heard  from  you,  my  heart  beats  anxiously, 
nervously.     I  can  only  pray  for  your  safety  and  trust  in 


WAR    LETTERS  175 

the  mercy  of  God.  .  .  .  My  heart  cries  our  in  constant 
prayers  for  your  safety.  Ohl  God  !><■  with  him  every- 
where, defend   his  body  and   his  soul. 

Always  very  lovingly, 

Mother. 

Aug.  26th,   1862. 
My  clear  Mother: 

I  have  an  opportunity  to  smuggle  a  letter  through  the 
lines  letting  you  know  that  I  am  well,  and,  in  the  stoppage 
of  all  communication  with  the  army,  assuring  you  that 
you  must  comfort  your  heart  with  the  thought  that  "no 
news  is  good  news."  If  any  accident  should  befall  me, 
rest  assured  you  will  hear  of  it  soon  enough.  If  you  hear 
nothing,  then,  dear  Mother,  rest  content.  I  am  still 
performing  the  duties  of  an  Asst.  Adj. -Gen.  I  saw  to- 
day in  the  papers>  the  arrival  of  the  18th  Regt.  C.  V.  in 
Baltimore,  and  saw  too  that  my  name  was  not  printed 
in  the  Field.  Never  mind,  these  are  too  important  times 
for  the  indulgence  of  mere  petty  ambitions.  I  am  con- 
tent to  serve  my  country  in  my  present  position,  and  have 
all  the  responsibility  I  desire  on  my  shoulders.  We  are 
very  busy.     I  must  not  tell  how  we  are  employed. 

Write  me  as  usual.  Occasionally  your  letters  will 
reach  me  when  an  opportunity  occurs,  remaining  in  the 
meantime  at  Washington.  Good-bye.  Many,  many 
kisses,  and  a  deal  of  affection  for  you  all  at  home.  God 
bless  you  all.  If  I  could  only  see  the  children,  my  sisters 
and  my  own  dear  mother!  Still  I  am  getting  along  swim- 
mingly.   Love  to  all. 

Yours  affee'v.. 

Will. 


180  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

[Battle  of  Chantilly] 
Headquarters  ist  Div.  Reno's  Command, 

Near  Alexandria,  Sept.  4th,  1862. 
Dear  Mother: 

Once  more,  after  a  lapse  of  nearly  five  weeks,  am  I 
able  to  write  you  again.  During  this  time  we  have  been 
cut  off  from  all  communication  with  our  friends,  we  have 
been  busily  employed,  and  have  suffered  much.  I  have 
lost  my  good  friend,  Genl.  Stevens,  who  has  been  sacri- 
ficed by  little  men  who  can  poorly  fill  his  place.  When- 
ever anything  desperate  was  to  be  performed,  Stevens 
and  Kearny  were  always  selected,  with  this  difference 
though,  that  Stevens  rarely  was  credited  with  what  he 
did,  while  Kearny's  praises  were  properly  published. 
On  Monday's  fight,  the  General's  son  and  I  were  walking 
together  in  the  rear  of  the  79th  Regiment,  when  Capt. 
Stevens  was  wounded.  Finding  that  young  Stevens  was 
able  to  move  off  without  assistance,  I  continued  to  follow 
the  Regiment.  Soon  the  General  came  up  on  foot.  "  Have 
you  seen  your  son?"  I  asked  him.  "Yes,"  said  he, 
"  I  know  he  is  wounded,"  and  then  added,  "  Capt.  Lusk,  I 
wish  you  would  pass  to  the  left  of  the  line,  and  push  the 
men  forward  in  that  direction."  I  did  as  I  was  ordered, 
and  on  my  return,  found  the  General  had  been  killed,  and 
the  troops  badly  slaughtered.  The  General  you  have 
read  was  shot  while  holding  the  flag  of  the  79th  Regiment 
in  his  hand. 

There  were  five  shot  holding  the  same  flag  in  about 
twenty  minutes  time.  I  found  the  sixth  man  standing 
almost  alone  at  the  edge  of  some  woods  still  clinging 
hopelessly  to  the  colors.  I  drew  him  back  to  the  crest 
of  a  hill  a  couple  of  hundred  yards  back  and  gathered 
a  few  of  the   79th  about  it.      Kearny  then  came   riding 


WAR   LET!  ERS  181 

up,  and  asked  the  name  of  the  little  band.  On  being  told , 
he  said,  "Scotchmen,  you  must  follow  me."  I  hey  told 
him  they  had  not  a  round  of  ammunition  left.     "Well," 

said  he  then,  "stand  where  you  are  and  it  may  be  you 
will  be  able  to  assist  my  men  with  the  bayonet."  The 
soldierly  form  moved  on,  and  it  too  soon  was  dust.  Stevens 
was  a  great  man  and  Kearny  a  courageous  soldier.  It 
is  not  every  man  of  whom  this  last  can  be  said,  though 
the  country  may  have  placed  him  high  in  power.  1  sup- 
pose I  must  not  tell  all  I  have  seen  in  the  last  few  days 
fighting,  but  I  have  seen  enough  to  make  it  no  matter  of 
wonder  at  the  extent  of  our  disaster.  I  have  read  little 
truth  as  yet  in  the  papers,  though  I  see  the  people  are 
beginning  to  feel  the  truth.  So  long  as  the  interests  of 
our  country  are  entrusted  to  a  lying  braggart  like  Pope, 
or  a  foolish  little  Dutchman  like  Sigel,  we  have  little 
reason  to  hope  successfully  to  compete  with  an  army  led 
by  Lee,  Johnston  and  old  "Stonewall"  Jackson.  Carl 
Schurz,  our  lately  returned  minister  to  Spain,  I  found 
blundering  horribly.  Schenck  was  a  laughable  instance 
of  incompetence,  and  so  with  others.  You  must  be  care- 
ful to  whom  you  repeat  these  things,  and  yet  there  is 
much  which  it  were  better  were  known,  for  our  soldiers 
are  not  deceived  by  lying  reports.  They  feel  whom  they 
can  trust,  and  are  not  willing  to  fight  for  men  like  Mc- 
Dowell and  that  ilk.  McClellan's  reappointment  gives 
great  satisfaction  to  the  soldiers.  Whether  right  or  wrong 
they  believe  in  him. 

I  expect  to  get  my  back  letters  to-day,  and  then  what 
a  treat.  I  am  still  very  much  fatigued  by  the  last  month, 
and  like  to  rest  all  I  can. 

Good-bye.     Kisses  and  love  to  all. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 


i82  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Second  Battle  of  Bull  Run, 
August  28,  29,  and  30,  1862. 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  431. 

"The  Confederate  Army  under  Lee  numbered  —  Longstreet,  30,000; 
Jackson,  22,000;  Stuart's  Cavalry,  3,000;  total  55,000." 

Pope's  strength  was  estimated  at  60,000. 

Page  442.  "  Pope's  army  was  well  positioned  for  a  determined 
attack  upon  Jackson  the  first  thing  the  next  morning  by  McDowell  and 
Sigel,  with  the  right  coming  up  early  to  support.  .  .  .  And  it  is  clear 
that  Pope's  only  chance  of  'bagging'  or  beating  Jackson  was  lost  on 
the  28th  by  the  dilatory,  disconnected,  and  purposeless  marches  of 
McDowell's  wing." 

Page  448.  "Then  Stevens's  division  marches  up  the  pike  to  the 
crossing  of  the  Sudley  road,  where  Sigel  is  receiving  Schurz's  and  Mil- 
roy's  cries  for  aid.  .  .  .  Sigel,  with  the  consent  of  Reno,  as  he  claims, 
immediately  scatters  this  fine  division.  .  .  .  Reno's  division,  which 
next  arrived,  was  dissipated  in  like  manner  .  .  .  Hooker's  division 
on  its  arrival  was  also  divided.  .  .  . 

"It  was  not  an  uncommon  thing  during  the  war,  as  many  an  officer 
knows  from  dear-bought  experience,  for  commanders  of  troops  in  action 
to  beseech  support,  usually  claiming  that  they  were  out  of  ammunition, 
or  their  flanks  were  being  turned,  and,  when  the  reinforcements  reached 
them,  to  put  the  newcomers  into  the  front  line  and  withdraw  their  own 
troops  to  the  rear.  This  was  what  Sigel  did  with  the  divisions  of  the 
right  wing  as  they  reached  the  field.  Thus  these  fine  troops,  second  to 
none  in  condition,  discipline,  and  morale,  which,  led  by  their  own  gen- 
erals and  thrown  in  mass  upon  the  enemy,  would  have  struck  a  mighty 
blow,  were  frittered  away  over  the  field,  simply  relieving  other  troops, 
and  adding  but  little  to  the  extent  or  strength  of  the  battle  line.  Schurz, 
ever  mightier  with  the  pen  than  the  sword,  evinced  a  marvellous  capacity 
to  absorb  reinforcements.  And  Sigel,  having  demonstrated  his  talents  as 
a  strategist  and  a  marcher  the  previous  day,  now  proved  his  ability  on 
the  battlefield  by  so  scattering  the  17,000  troops  of  the  right  wing  as  to 
deprive  them  of  their  own  able  and  tried  commanders,  and  reduce  them 
to  the  least  possible  weight  upon  the  fighting  line. 

"His  division  being  thus  scattered,  Gen.  Stevens  led  up  the  pike  the 
brigade  which  was  to  reinforce  Schenck.  This  consisted  of  only  a  regi- 
ment and  a  half." 

Page  450.  "  Longstreet's  wing  was  fast  arriving,  and  by  noon  four 
of  his  divisions  were  in  position." 

453.  "General  Pope  arrived  on  the  field  about  noon.  .  .  .  All  the 
afternoon  he  was  expecting  Porter's  and  McDowell's  column  to  fall 
upon  Jackson's  right  and  rear,  for  he  had  worked  himself  up  to  the 
belief  that  Longstreet  would  not  be  up  for  another  day,  and  nothing 
short  of  disastrous  defeat  could  change  his  dogged  belief." 


WAR    LETTERS  i8.j 

Page  455.    "Unable  longer  to  control  his  impatience,  General  Pope 

began  about  4  p.  111.  sending  peremptory  order,  to  atta<k,    first  to  one 

command,  then  to  another,  as  he  could  get  hold  of  them,  accompanying 
the  orders  with  assurances  thai  the  enemy  was  being  driven  by  some 
other  command,  and  that  Portei  was  about  to  fall,  01  v-.is  falling,  on  Ins 

flank  and  rear,  and  using  him  up." 

Page  458.  "The  rattle  of  musketry  is  Mill  1 1  hoing  in  the  forett,  and 
Kearny's  fugitives  are  pouring  out  upon  the  open,  when  an  offil  er  in  hot 
haSte  conveys  Tope's  order  to  (  ieiiei.il  l.tevens  to  advam  1  intO  th<  WOodl 
and  attack.  The  only  troops  left  him  Were  a  regiment  and  a  half  .  .  . 
only  seven  hundred  strong.  ...  I  he  scanty  line  enters  and  sweeps 
through  the  woods,  encounters  the  enemy  now  holding  the  railroad, 
delivers  and  receives  for  fifteen  minutes,  which  seem  hours,  a  heavy 
musketry  fire,  and  then,  with  the  enemy  swarming  past  both  flanks,  is 
forced  back  through  the  woods  to  the  open  ground,  where  the  men  at 
once  halt  and  reform.  Both  the  regimental  commanders  and  Colonel 
Lcasurc,  commanding  the  brigade,  were  severely  wounded,  and  the  loss 
was  about  two  hundred.  Gen.  Stevens's  horse  was  shot  under  him.  .  .  . 
It  was  remarked  that  when  his  troops  emerged  out  of  the  woods, 
almost  the  last  one  was  a  short  man  in  a  general's  uniform,  followed 
by  a  tall  orderly  bearing  a  saddle  on  his  shoulder.  With  this  attack 
the  fighting  on  the  right  came  to  an  end  that  day." 

Page  459.  "The  following  incident,  which  illustrates  the  evil  effects 
of  scattering  commands,  is  related  in  the  history  of  the  79th  Highlanders 
by  Captain  William  T.  Lusk,  one  of  the  General's  aides:  — 

"'I  was  directed  to  find  Farnsworth;  was  sent  by  Sigel  to  Schurz, 
and  by  Schurz  to  Schimmelfennig.  The  gallant  German,  when  at  last 
found,  exclaimed,  "Mein  Gott!  de  troops,  dey  all  runned  avay,  and  I 
guess  your  men  runned  avay,  too!"  General  Stevens  was  indignant,  and 
used  some  pretty  strong  language,  when  I  carried  back  this  report, 
and  ordered  me  to  find  the  missing  regiments,  and  not  to  return  until  I 
brought  them  with  me.  I  started,  therefore,  for  the  old  railroad  em- 
bankment. Luckily,  I  found  Farnsworth  just  on  the  edge  of  the  woods. 
He  said  he  was  waiting  for  orders,  but  had  none  since  I  left  him  in  the 
morning.' 

"  But  the  day  was  not  to  close  without  one  more  useless  slaughter  of 
brave  troops.  .  .  .  Pope  .  .  .  ordered  McDowell  to  push  it"  (the  divi- 
sion) "up  the  road  in  pursuit  of  the  enemy,  declaring  that  he  was  in  full 
retreat.  .  .  .  The  other  three  brigades  .  .  .  fired  bv  the  lying  promises 
of  success  .  .  .  hastened  up  the  road  with  high  hopes  .  .  .  but  the 
disparity  in  numbers  wTas  too  great  for  the  Union  troops.  .  .  .  Night 
put  an  end  to  the  unequal  struggle. 

"This  ended  the  fighting  of  the  29th.  The  Union  arms  were  out- 
numbered and  repulsed  in  every  encounter,  and  lost  ground  on  both 
wings.  Sigel's  dilatory  and  timid  advance  consumed  the  morning 
hours  until,  with  Longstreet's  arrival,  the  chance  of  attacking  Jackson's 


184  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

right  was  lost.  Sigel,  too,  may  be  censured  for  his  importunate  and 
unsoldierly  demands  for  aid  which  so  frittered  away  the  weight  of  the 
right  wing.  But  Pope  on  his  arrival  could  have  rectified  this.  Pope, 
and  Pope  alone,  ordered  the  hastv  and  disconnected  attacks  of  the  after- 
noon, .wasting  the  blood  and  impairing  the  morale  of  his  best  troops.  .  .  . 
All  that  afternoon  Lee  was  master  of  the  situation.  His  army  was  united. 
Pope's  was  divided;  over  twenty  thousand  of  his  troops  out  of  reach  and 
beyond  his  control." 

Page  463.  The  following  day,  Aug.  30th,  "at  noon,  Pope  issued  an 
order,  the  most  astonishing  in  its  fatuity  ever  given  out  on  a  battlefield." 
The  order  was  one  to  pursue  the  enemy,  "and  press  him  vigorously 
during  the  whole  day." 

Page  464.  "But  the  officers  charged  with  the  execution  of  the  order 
never  attempted  to  carry  it  out  according  to  its  terms.  .  .  .  The  pursuit 
feature  of  the  order  was  ignored  by  all,  and  instead  of  it  a  strong  column 
of  attack  was  organized  against  Jackson's  center." 

Page  476.  "Under  the  leadership  of  a  Sheridan,  a  Grant,  a  Meade, 
or  a  Thomas,  his"  (Pope's)  "gallant  army  would  never  have  retreated 
from  the  field,  and  might  have  inflicted  a  deadly  blow  upon  its  antagonist. 
How  bravely  and  even  desperately  the  Union  troops  fought  is  best  attested 
by  the  Confederate  reports,  and  the  nine  thousand  Confederate  losses 
in  killed  and  wounded.  The  union  loss,  including  that  of  the  28th, 
amounted  to  fourteen  thousand.  That  at  the  end  of  the  battle  there  was 
disorder  and  demoralization  among  some  commands  it  were  idle  to 
deny,  but  it  has  been  grossly  exaggerated." 


"The  jgtb  Highlanders,"  p.  204. 

Todd,  in  speaking  of  the  retreat  at  Second  Bull  Run,  says: 
"Without  haste  and  without  the  least  confusion,  the  batteries  limbered 
up  and  moved  back  to  the  Sudley  road  .  .  .  Ricketts'  division  followed 
and  then  ours.  As  soon  as  we  began  moving  back,  the  enemy  flocked 
out  of  the  woods  in  considerable  numbers,  and  pressed  so  hard  that 
twice  we  formed  a  partial  line  and  delivered  a  few  volleys  which  retarded 
their  advance.  The  second  time,  and  just  as  our  brigade  was  forming 
line,  and  the  rear  of  the  other  regiments  were  filing  past  out  of  our  front, 
we  heard  the  exulting  shouts  and  yells  of  the  enemy,  who  had  gained  the 
position  just  left  by  us.  At  that  moment  too,  and  just  as  the  early 
twilight  rendered  objects  indistinct  in  the  woods,  a  one-armed  horse- 
man galloped  up  followed  by  some  straggling  infantry;  we  recognized 

Gen.  Kearny.     'What are  you  —  cowards  running  away  for?'  he 

exclaimed.  A  regiment  on  our  right  had  broken,  and  the  General  no 
doubt  thought  that  a  stampede  was  about  to  take  place.  Some  one 
replied  that  we  were  not  running  away  very  much  just  then,  and  that 
if  he  wanted  to  know  why  we  had  left  our  position,  he  could  'go  and 
see.'     Turning  to  his  men  he  shouted:  'Come  on  boys!    We'll  show  these 


WAR    LETTERS  185 

fellows  how  to  fight!'     Ii  seemed  but  a    moment,  before   we   heard 
a  terrific  volley  of  musketry,  the  bullets  whistling  over  our  heads,  and  a 
moment  later  the  gallant  Kearny  <  ame  dashing  bat  k  through  thi 
his  men  following  ;it  his  heels  in  great  disorder.  boys,  its  hotter 

than  —  there!'     he     exclaimed,    and    disappeared    With    his     men.       I  he 

enemy  followed,  yelling  and  firing  at  th<   retreating  troops,  but    tevens' 

veterans  stood   linn.      Captain    l.usk  says:  '('apt.  Stevens,  our  Assistant 

Adjutant-*  leneral,  realizing  the  necessity  of  presenting  a  bold  and  di  t<  r- 

mined  front  to  the  enemy,  caused  the  Highlanders  and  another  regiment 
on  their  right  to  again  halt  for  a  few  minutes,  and  to  pour  so  well  aimed 
and  heavy  a  volley  into  the  faces  of  the  exulting  enemy  that  they  in  turn 
fell  hack  into  the  heavy  woods."' 

The  Battle  of  Chantilly 
Sept.  1st,  1862 

"Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,"   Vol.  II,  p.  477. 

"General  Stevens  now"  (Aug.  31st)  "received  orders  from  General 
Pope  to  act  as  rear-guard."  It  was  a  "duty,  the  most  important  and 
responsihle  in  the  army  at  this  juncture.  .  .  .  Contrary  to  expectation, 
the  enemy  did  not  press  on  after  his  victory,  although  he  appeared  in 
force,  advanced  his  skirmish  line  in  plain  view,  and  opened  briskly 
with  his  artillery,  to  which  ours  as  briskly  replied.  ...  At  night 
General  Reynolds  and  his  division  relieved  General  Stevens.  He 
criticised  some  of  the  latter's  dispositions,  which  called  out  a  sharp 
rejoinder.  .  .  .  Then  he  said  the  enemy  might  attack  at  any  moment. 
But  General  Stevens  did  not  share  his  apprehensions,  and  remarked  to 
him,  T  think  it  most  probable  that  the  enemy  will  move  around  and 
strike  us  under  the  ribs.' 

"After  being  relieved,  the  division  moved  to  Centreville,  and  biv- 
ouacked on  the  heights  half  a  mile  south  of  the  hamlet.  The  following 
morning,  Monday,  September  1st,  the  officers  straightened  out  their 
commands  and  took  account  of  their  losses.  .  .  .  Half  of  the  division" 
(Stevens's) "  had  fallen  in  battle,  or  on  the  march,  since  leaving  Fredericks- 
burg a  fortnight  before." 

Page  479.  "While  the  beaten  and  distracted  Union  commander 
was  trying  to  straighten  out  his  forces  huddled  about  Centreville,  uncer- 
tain whether  to  risk  further  conflict  or  to  fall  back  to  the  defences  of 
Washington,  Lee  was  moving  his  whole  army  in  one  column,  to  fall  upon 
his  enemy's  line  of  retreat  and  rear.  .  .  .  On  this  Monday  morning 
Jackson  was  marching  down  the  turnpike  with  Longstreet  and  his  whole 
wing  following  closely  in  support,  thus  turning  the  Union  Armv  at 
Centreville,  and  moving  to  fall  upon  its  only  line  of  retreat.  .  .  .  Pope 
had  taken  no  steps  to  anticipate  or  guard  against  this  fatal  flank  move- 
ment. He  was  groping  in  the  dark,  utterlv  at  a  loss  what  course  to 
pursue,  and  consequently  he  did  nothing  until  noon,  when  startling  news 


186  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

forced  him  to  decision  and  to  action.  ...  At  one  p.  m.  two  cavalrymen 
dashed  up  to  General  Stevens's  headquarters.  They  bore  orders  to  him 
from  General  Pope  to  march  immediately  across  country,  guided  by 
the  two  troopers,  to  the  Little  River  pike,  and  there  take  position  and 
hold  in  check  a  column  of  the  enemy  reported  advancing  down  that 
road.  .  .  .  General  Stevens  soon  had  his  division  under  arms.  .   .   . 

"After  proceeding  across  country  several  miles,  .  .  .  the  little  caval- 
cade at  the  head  of  the  column  was  suddenly  surprised  by  the  sight  of  a 
rebel  skirmish  line  deployed  across  the  fields  in  front  and  cautiously 
advancing  toward  it,  and  the  more  because  the  Little  River  pike  .  .  . 
was  still  some  distance  away.  ...  At  the  first  glance  General  Stevens 
realized  what  that  rebel  skirmish  line  portended.  It  portended  an  attack 
in  force  upon  the  turnpike,  the  only  line  of  retreat.  Full  well  he  knew 
that  the  movement  must  be  arrested,  or  the  line  of  retreat  would  be 
broken,  the  army  cut  in  two  while  widely  extended  along  the  road,  and 
a  great  disaster  inflicted.  Instantly  he  threw  forward  two  companies 
of  the  Highlanders,  under  Captains  William  T.  Lusk  and  Robert  Ives, 
to  drive  back  the  enemy's  advance  and  uncover  his  movement.  Deploy- 
ing in  skirmish  order,  they  ran  forward,  exchanging  a  sharp  fire  with  the 
opposing  line  and  driving  it  back,  crossed  the  hollow,  surmounted  a 
graded  railroad  embankment  which  traversed  it,  and  pushed  on  after 
the  rebel  skirmishers  into  the  farther  fields." 

Page  483.  "While  the  Highlanders  were  thus  pushing  back  the 
enemy,  General  Stevens,  without  halting  or  retarding  the  march  of  his 
troops  an  instant, was  forming  them  as  fast  as  they  came  up,  in  a  column 
of  brigades  on  the  hither  side  of  the  fields  beyond  the  hollow.  .  .  . 
Lusk's  company  now  rejoined  its  regiment." 

Page  484.  "The  column  now  advanced,  Benjamin's  guns  firing 
shells  into  the  woods  in  front.  .  .  .  There  was  nothing  to  be  seen  but 
the  open  field,  extending  two  hundred  yards  in  front  and  closed  by  the 
wall  of  woods,  with  an  old  zigzag  rail  fence  at  its  edge.  'There  is  no 
enemy  there,'  exclaimed  Captain  Lusk  to  Captain  Stevens,  as  they  were 
marching  side  by  side;  'they  have  fallen  back;  we  shall  find  nothing 
there.'  Even  as  he  spoke,  the  enemy  poured  a  terrific  volley  from  behind 
the  rail  fence.  Captain  Stevens  struck  the  ground,  .  .  .  shot  in  the 
arm  and  hip,  and  as  he  struggled  to  his  feet  saw  the  even  line  of  the 
Highlanders  pressing  firmly  and  steadily  on.  ...  The  enemy  was 
smiting  the  column  with  a  terrible  and  deadly  musketry.  The  men 
were  falling  fast.  General  Stevens  now  ordered  Captain  Lusk  to 
hasten  to  the  50th  Pennsylvania,  which  was  hesitating  at  entering  the 
cornfield,  and  to  push  them  forward.  .  .  .  The  troops,  under  the  wither- 
ing hail  of  bullets,  were  now  wavering.  .  .  .  Five  color-bearers  of  the 
Highlanders  had  fallen  in  succession,  and  the  colors  again  fell  to  the 
ground.  At  this  crisis  General  Stevens  pushed  to  the  front,  seized  the 
falling  colors  from  the  hands  of  the  wounded  bearer,  unheeding  his 
cry,  'For  God's  sake,  don't  take  the  colors,  General  ;  they'll  shoot  you 


WAR    LK'IIKRS  187 

if  you  do!'  and  calling   aloud  upon  liis  old    regiment, 'Highian 
my  Highlanders,  follow  your  general! '  rushed  forward  with  the  uplifted 
flag.    The  regiment  responded  nobly.    They  rushed  forward,  reached 

the  edge  of  the   woods,   hurled    i  li<  mselvcs  with    fury    upon    the    fence 

and  the  rebel  line  behind  it,  and  the  enemy  broke  and  fled  in  disorder. 
The  28th  Massachusetts  joined  gallantly  in  the  charge,  and  the  other 
brigades  as  gallantly  supported  the  lust.  .  .  .  General  Stevens  fell 
dead  in  the  moment  ol  victory.    A  bullei  entered  .it  the  temple  and 

pierced  his  brain,  lie  still  firmly  grasped  the  flagstaff,  and  tin  colors 
lay  fallen  upon  his  head  and  shoulders." 

Page  487.  "Jackson,  judging  from  the  fury  of  the  attack  and  the 
numbers  of  his  men  running  in  disorder  out  of  the  woods  that  he  was 
assailed  by  a  heavy  force,  .  .  .  hurried  Hill's  infantry  division  forward 
to  maintain  the  battle.  .  .  .  General  Stevens's  division  withstood  the 
attack  of  these  fresh  troops  stoutly.  It  had  driven  back  everything  in 
its  immediate  front.  ...  It  was  impossible  for  its  scanty  numbers  long 
to  resist  the  pressure  of  Hill's  brigades  successively  rushing  into  the 
conflict.      But  aid  was  at  hand. 

"At  the  moment  of  ordering  the  fatal  charge,  General  Stevens  sent 
Lieutenant  H.  G.  Belcher,  of  the  8th  Michigan,  back  to  the  main  turn- 
pike with  instructions  to  ask  support,  and  to  go  from  commander  to 
commander  until  he  secured  it.  Belcher  applied  to  several  generals, 
who  declined  to  go  without  orders,  until  finally  he  met  General 
Kearny.      Scarcely  had    he    made    known    his    mission    to    him,  .  .  . 

when  Kearny  exclaimed,   ' ,  I   will    support    Stevens    anywhere!' 

and  at  once  broke  the  head  of  his  column  off  the  pike,  and  struck 
across  the  fields  to  the  sound  of  the  battle." 

Page  492.  "Only  sixteen  Union  regiments  .  .  .  fought  this  battle 
against  Jackson's  whole  corps  of  seventy  regiments,  of  which  at  least  forty- 
eight  were  in  the  fight.  The  Union  force  numbered  5500  effective,  the 
Confederate  at  least  twice  as  many.  In  this  brief  and  fierce  battle 
the  losses  on  each  side  were  from  eight  hundred  to  one  thousand.  .  .  . 

"How  exactly  General  Stevens  grasped  the  military  situation  when 
he  caught  sight  of  the  rebel  skirmish  line,  and  instantly  decided  to  stay 
Jackson's  impending  advance  by  an  attack  that  would  throw  even  him 
on  the  defensive,  is  clearly  shown  by  the  Confederate  leader's  objective, 
and  the  dispositions  he  had  made  of  his  troops  to  accomplish  it." 

Page  493.  "It  lay  wholly  in  Jackson's  will  and  power,  advancing 
hut  little  over  a  mile,  to  hurl  this  mighty  mass,  seventy  regiments  strong, . 
upon  Pope's  only  road  and  his  retreating  troops  and  trains.  ...  At 
the  very  instant  of  launching  the  thunderbolt,  Jackson  learns  that  the 
enemy  is  advancing  upon  him,  his  skirmishers  are  driven  in,  his  center 
division  is  hurled  headlong  from  its  position,  the  fugitives  pour  out  of 
the  woods,  he  hurries  his  artillery  to  the  rear,  is  forced  to  throw7  the  whole 
of  his  right  division  into  the  fight,  brigade  after  brigade,  and  to  withdraw 
his  left  division  for  his  last  reserve.     The  possibility  of  striking  his  enemy 


i88  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

is  gone.  .  .  .  And  the  troops  that  General  Stevens  led  to  this  desperate 
and  victorious  charge  were  the  same  who,  but  ten  weeks  since,  suffered 
the  slaughter  on  James  Island,  and  had  just  lost  half  of  their  number 
in  the  bloody  encounters  on  the  plains  of  Bull  Run.  Can  more  be  said 
for  the  gallantry  and  devotion  of  the  soldiers,  or  the  hold  upon  them  of 
their  heroic  leader?" 

Page  494.  "Had  General  Stevens  remained  on  the  defensive  and 
given  time  —  and  time  counted  by  minutes  —  for  Jackson  to  advance, 
disaster  were  inevitable.  How  long  could  his  scanty  force  of  nine  regi- 
ments, outflanked  and  overborne,  have  resisted  the  avalanche  ?  .  .  . 
The  closest  study  of  the  situation  strengthens  the  conviction  that  General 
Stevens  that  day  saved  the  army  and  the  country  from  an  appalling 
disaster." 

Page  498.  "The  Highlanders  reverently  and  tenderly  bore  away  the 
body  of  their  beloved  commander.  ...  At  the  very  moment  of  his 
heroic  death  General  Stevens  was  being  considered  by  the  President 
and  his  advisers  as  commander  of  the  armies  in  Virginia.  .  .  .  General 
Stevens  was  buried  in  the  Island  Cemetery  in  Newport.  .  .  .  The  City 
of  Newport  erected  beside  his  grave  a  massive  granite  obelisk." 


Headquarters  1st  Division, 

9th  Army  Corps, 
Meridian  Hill,  Washington,  D.  C. 

Sept.  6th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Now  that  our  General  is  dead,  a  Colonel  commands 
the  old  Division  temporarily,  and  I  continue  to  superin- 
tend the  office,  running  the  old  machine  along  until 
different  arrangements  can  be  made,  when  I  suppose  I 
shall  be  set  adrift  with  no  pleasant  prospects  before  me. 
I  would  resign,  were  I  permitted  to  do  so,  and  would  gladly 
return  to  my  medical  studies  this  winter,  tired  as  I  am 
of  the  utter  mismanagement  which  characterizes  the 
conduct  of  our  public  affairs.  Disheartened  by  the  ter- 
mination of  a  disastrous  campaign  —  disasters  which 
every  one  could  and  did  easily  foresee  from  the  course  pur- 
sued— we  find  as  a  consolation,  that  our  good  honest  old 


WAR    LK'ITERS  189 

President  has  told  a  new  story  npropos  of  the  occasion, 
and  the  land  is  ringing  with  the  wisdom  of  the  rail-splitting 

Solomon.  Those  who  were  anxious  and  burning  to 
serve  their  country,  can  only  view  with  sullen  disgust  the 
vast  resources  of  the  land  directed  not  to  make  our  arms 
victorious,  hut  to  give  political  security  to  those  in  pow<  r. 
Men  show  themselves  in  a  thousand  ways  incompetent, 
yet  still  they  receive  the  support  of  the  Government. 
Politicians,  like  Carl  Schurz,  receive  high  places  in  the 
army  without  a  qualification  to  recommend  them.  Stern 
trusty  old  soldiers  like  Stevens  are  treated  with  cold  neg- 
lect. The  battle  comes — there  is  no  head  on  the  field 
— the  men  are  handed  over  to  be  butchered — to  die 
on  inglorious  fields.  Lying  reports  are  written.  Political 
Generals  receive  praises  where  they  deserve  execration. 
Old  Abe  makes  a  joke.  The  army  finds  that  nothing  has 
been  learned.  New  preparations  are  made,  with  all  the 
old  errors  retained.  New  battles  are  prepared  for,  to  end 
in  new  disasters.  Alas,  my  poor  country!  The  army  is 
sadly  demoralized.  Men  feel  that  there  is  no  honor  to 
be  gained  by  the  sword.  No  military  service  is  recog- 
nized unless  coupled  with  political  interest.  The  army  is 
exhausted  with  suffering — its  enthusiasm  is  dead.  Should 
the  enemy  attack  us  here  however,  we  should  be  vic- 
torious. The  men  would  never  yield  up  their  Capitol. 
There  is  something-  more  though  than  the  draft  needed 
to  enable  us  to  march  a  victorious  host  to  the  Gulf  of 
Mexico.  Well,  I  have  been  writing  freely  enough  to 
entitle  me  to  accommodations  in  Fort  Lafayette,  but  I 
can  hardly  express  the  grief  and  indignation  I  feel  at  the 
past.     God  grant  us  better  things  in  future. 

I  had   said  my  own  prospects  are  somewhat  gloomy. 
When  the  changes  are  made  in  this  command,  and  new 


i go  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

hands  shall  take  charge  of  it,  I  will  have  to  return  to  the 
79th  Regiment  —  a  fate  at  which  I  shudder.  The  Regi- 
ment has  been  in  five  large  battles,  and  in  ten  or  twelve 
smaller  engagements.  While  adding  on  each  occasion 
new  luster  to  its  own  reputation,  it  has  never  taken  part 
in  a  successful  action.  The  proud  body  that  started  from 
the  city  over  a  thousand  strong,  are  now  a  body  of  crip- 
ples. The  handful  (230)  that  remains  are  foreigners  whose 
patriotism  misfortunes  have  quenched.  The  morale  is 
destroyed  —  discipline  relaxed  beyond  hope  of  restora- 
tion. The  General  and  all  the  true  friends  of  the  Regi- 
ment were  of  the  opinion  that  it  should  be  mustered  out 
of  the  service.  After  performing  hard  duties  in  the  field 
for  fifteen  months  I  find  there  is  nothing  left  me,  but  to 
sink  into  disgrace  with  a  Regiment  that  is  demoralized 
past  hope  of  restoration.  This  for  a  reward.  I  am 
writing  this  from  the  old  scene  of  the  mutiny  of  last  year. 
A  strange  year  it  has  been.  God  has  marvellously  pre- 
served my  life  through  every  danger.  May  he  be  merci- 
ful to  my  mother  in  the  year  to  come.  My  old  friend 
Matteson  is  dead.  He  was  a  Major  in  Yates'  Regiment 
of  Sharpshooters  which  distinguished  itself  at  Corinth. 
He  died  at  Rosecrans'  Headquarters,  of  typhoid  fever. 

We  are  going  to  move  from  here  to-morrow,  but  your 
safest  direction  will  be  Capt.  W.  T.  Lusk,  A.  A.  A.  G., 
1st  Div.  9th  Army  Corps,  Washington  (or  elsewhere). 
All  the  letters  sent  me  since  I  left  Fredericksburg  have 
miscarried,  and  I  am  very  anxious  for  news. 

Affec'y, 

Will. 


WAR    LETTERS  191 

NORWK  II,    (   ONN. 

September  9th,   1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  am  half  sick,  very  sad,  grieved,  and  troubled  on  your 
account,  yet  very  thankful  for  the  wonderful  preserva- 
tion of  your  life:  through  so  many  dangers.  I  cannot 
but  feel  that  a  life  so  tared  for,  has  been  saved  for  the 
accomplishment  of  good  and  wise  purposes,  which  will 
be  wrought  out  in  God's  own  time.  Take  courage,  and 
strengthen  your  heart,  my  own  precious  son,  in  the  re- 
membrance of  what  He  has  done  for  you,  through  the 
whole  course  of  your  life,  and  especially  for  his  goodness 
amid  the  dangers  of  the  past  year.  Well  may  we  all  lament 
the  loss  of  your  General.  I  feel,  and  mourn  as  for  a 
personal  friend,  and  the  nation  too  late  acknowledges 
the  want  of  appreciation  of  one  of  its  greatest  men  and 
ablest  military  commanders.  Gen.  Kearny's  staff,  I 
noticed,  returned  with  his  body,  and  so  we  have  hoped 
that,  sad  as  the  journey  might  be,  you  would  be  permitted 
to  accompany  your  General's  remains  to  their  last  home. 

I  have  just  received  two  letters  from  you,  one  of  the 
4th,  the  other  of  the  6th.  May  God  be  with  you,  my  dear 
son,  to  comfort  and  guide.  A  dark  cloud  seems  to  have 
gathered  around  you  ;  may  it  soon  pass  and  the  bright- 
ness shine  again.  The  Herald  and  Times  have  contained 
little  regarding  Gen.  Stevens,  but  the  Tribune  corre- 
spondent sounds  his  praises,  and  dwells  upon  his  memory. 
There  was  a  statement  in  yesterday's  Tribune,  that  while 
he  was  engaged  in  his  last  battle,  prominent  men,  though 
political  opponents,  had  decided  to  request  that  he 
might  command  the  Army  of  Virginia,  his  splendid  fight- 
ing on  Friday  and   Saturday,   having  at  last   awakened 


i92  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

the  remembrance  of  his  superior  abilities,  and  his  dis- 
tinction at  West  Point,  as  well  as  in  Mexico,  and  where- 
ever  he  had  opportunities  to  show  himself.  The  Express 
says  he.  was  sacrificed  to  political  opinion. 

Do  write  as  often  as  possible,  my  son.  My  nerves  are 
greatly  shaken,  although  my  health  is  far  better  in  most 
respects  than  it  used  to  be,  yet  I  feel  sensibly  this  strain 
upon  my  spirits.  I  cannot  write  as  long  a  letter  as  I 
wish  to-day,  but  I  intend  in  future  to  write  a  little  every 
day,  to  always  have  something  ready  for  you. 

The  Lt.-Col.  of  the  Eighteenth  is  not  all  that  could  be 
desired,  and  Ely  I  am  told  regrets  that  you  are  not  with 
him.  Political  interests  are  paramount  everywhere.  Al- 
fred Goddard  called  on  us  last  night.  He  said  he  had 
followed  your  course,  and  everywhere  heard  your  noble 
conduct  spoken  of.  I  will  write  again  to-morrow.  I 
am  very  sorry  you  have  lost  your  back  letters  which  have 
gone  from  my  pen,  as  well  as  one  from  Lillie.  All  are 
well  at  home.  Poor  Matteson,  how  you  must  lament 
for  him!     Major  Elliott  I  see  is  wounded. 

God  bless  you  my  own  dear  son.  In  Him  is  our  only 
trust.  Would  that  we  could  meet  if  only  for  one  short 
hour. 

Your  sisters  send  love  and  warmest  sympathy.  We 
all  feel  for  you,  and  I  pray  earnestly  to  God  for  His  help 
and  blessings. 

Lovingly  and  anxiously, 

Mother. 

Hunt's  suggestions  are  dictated  by  his  kind  heart,  but 
I  think  you  deserve  and  must  receive  a  higher  appoint- 
ment than  that  of  Aide. 


WAR    LETTERS  193 

(From  E.  F.  Lusk  to  Horace  Barnard) 

Norwich,  Sept.  [oth,  1H62. 

Dear  Horace: 

I  received  your  letter  on  Sunday  morning.  I  am  satis- 
fied that  you  will  manage  the  business  intrusted  to  you 
as  well  as  may  he  during  these  horrible  times,  and  hope 
for  a  better  future.     I  am  sad,  sick,  despairing.     Fifte<  n 

months  ago  I  gave  my  son,  my  only  one,  to  serve  his  coun- 
try as  he  best  might.  How  faithful  he  has  been  his  Gen- 
eral has  testified.  He  has  fought  in  five  large  battles  and 
in  ten  or  twelve  small  ones,  not  a  day's  respite,  always  at 
the  wheel,  full  of  hope,  full  of  energy,  sacrificing  home, 
University  honors  in  Berlin,  all  that  made  life  lovely, 
to  serve  his  country  in  her  hour  of  need.  Look  at 
the  result.  Gen.  Stevens,  his  good  friend,  the  best, 
the  bravest,  the  truest  patriot,  the  courageous  soldier,  the 
great  man,  is  sacrificed,  while  blundering  little  men  who 
can  never  fill  his  place  are  for  political  reasons  reaping 
honors.  My  son  is  still  performing  the  duties  of  an 
Assistant  Adjutant-General,  trying,  as  he  says,  to  keep 
the  concern  in  motion,  but  with  gloomy  prospects  when 
the  command  passes  into  new  hands.  His  regiment,  the 
79th,  is  reduced  from  its  proud  array  of  1000  men  to  a 
regiment  of  cripples  —  only  230  men  are  left,  wholly, 
I  fear  hopelessly,  demoralized.  Oh,  my  God,  has  he  not 
one  friend  who  can  lift  a  hand  to  help  ?  Are  his  services 
of  no  value  ?  Loyal  as  I  have  ever  been,  loyal  as  I  am  still, 
now  that  his  kind  appreciative  General  is  gone,  I  would, 
if  I  could,  withdraw  him  from  the  army,  where  the  faith- 
ful servant  is  unnoticed,  and  the  scheming  politician 
receives  the  honors. 

I   have   received   two   letters   since  the   battles   on   the 


i94  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Rappahannock,  in  all  of  which  he  was  engaged,  through 
which,  my  God,  "The  God  of  the  widow,"  preserved 
him  alive.  He  was  "Acting  A.  A.  General,"  full  of  love 
and  admiration  for  his  General,  and  honored  in  return  by 
his  loving  confidence.  I  now  quote  from  his  letter  re- 
garding his  last  battle:  "Whenever  anything  desperate 
was  to  be  performed,  Kearny  and  Stevens  were  always 
selected,  with  this  difference  though,  that  Stevens  was 
rarely  credited  with  what  he  did,  while  Kearny's  praises 
were  very  properly  published.  On  Monday's  fight,  the 
General's  son  and  I  were  walking  together  in  the  rear  of 
the  79th  Regiment,  when  Capt.  Stevens  was  wounded. 
Finding  that  he  was  able  to  move  off  without  assistance, 
I  continued  to  follow  the  Regiment.  Soon  the  General 
came  up  on  foot.  'Have  you  seen  your  son  ?'  I  asked  him. 
'Yes,'  said  he,  'I  know  that  he  is  wounded,'  and  then 
added,  'Capt.  Lusk  I  wish  you  would  pass  to  the  left  of 
the  line,  and  push  the  men  forward  in  that  direction.'  I 
did  as  I  was  ordered  and  on  my  return  found  the  Gen. 
had  been  killed,  and  the  troops  badly  slaughtered.  The 
General  you  have  read  was  shot  while  holding  the  flag  of 
the  79th  Regiment  in  his  hand.  There  were  five  shot 
holding  the  same  flag  in  about  20  minutes  time.  I  found 
the  sixth  man  standing  almost  alone  at  the  edge  of  some 
woods,  still  clinging  hopelessly  to  the  colors.  I  drew 
him  back  to  the  crest  of  a  hill  a  couple  of  hundred  yards, 
and  gathered  a  few  of  the  79th  about  it.  Kearny  then 
came  riding  up,  and  asked  the  name  of  the  little  band. 
On  being  told,  he  said,  'Scotchmen  you  must  follow  me.' 
They  told  him  they  had  not  a  round  of  ammunition  left. 
'Well,'  said  he  then,  'stand  where  you  are,  and  it  may  be 
you  will  be  able  to  assist  my  men  with  the  bayonet.'  The 
soldierly   form    moved    on    and    it    too,    soon   was   dust. 


WAR    LKTThKS  195 

Stevens   was    a    great    man,    and     Kearny    a    courageous 
soldier." 

If  these  incidents  would  interest  the  public,  and  Mr. 
Godwin  is  inclined  to  publish  them  I  have  no  objection; 
you  may  do  as  you  like.  I  wish  the  country  knew  all 
that  occurred  on  those  battlefields.  The  truth  is  begin- 
ning to  dawn.  I  have  written  a  long  letter.  Will  is  still 
at  the  Headquarters  of  the  1st  Division,  Reno's  Com- 
mand, lie  shudders  at  the  thought  of  returning  to  his 
Regiment.  The  General  and  all  the  best  friends  of  the 
79th  felt  that  it  had  suffered  so  much  from  constant  active 
service,  was  so  terribly  decimated,  and  so  demoralized 
from  the  loss  of  officers,  it  should  be  recalled  from  the 
service.  If  my  son  has  friends  who  can  help,  beg  them 
to  think  of  him  now — his  General  killed,  his  intimate 
friends  wounded,  Major  Matteson,  his  tried  friend,  dead 
of  typhoid  fever — his  cup  is  more  than  full,  and  my  heart 
is  ready  to  burst  with  its  grief  for  him. 

Well,  good-bye;  give  much  love  to  all  who  care  for  us, 
and  believe  me, 

Truly  yours, 

E.  F.  Lusk. 


Norwich,  Conn. 

September  12th,   1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

You  see  I  am  following  out  my  resolution  to  write 
you  every  day,  although  I  have  many  doubts  about  your 
receiving  one  half  the  letters  I  write.  There  is  a  great 
dearth  of  news.  Pope's  report  with  its  censures  is  excit- 
ing remark,  and  I  trust  the  country  will  demand  a  full 
investigation  as  soon  as  the  public  necessity  will  permit. 


1 96  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Jeff  Davis'  Proclamation  is  highly  entertaining  in  view 
of  past  acts;  however,  that  we  care  little  about,  his  words 
are  nothing.  I  wish  I  knew  where  you  are,  and  where 
the  last  turn  in  the  wheel  has  placed  you.  I  suppose 
Gen.  Stevens'  part  in  the  last  battles,  together  with  that 
of  his  Division,  can  never  be  known.  It  is  specially  hard, 
because  his  gallantry  and  the  splendid  fighting  done  by 
his  troops,  were  in  the  first  accounts  acknowledged. 

The  death  of  young  Matteson  I  feel  sorely  on  your  ac- 
count. It  seems  as  though  the  storm  had  swept  over 
you;  your  General  killed,  friends  wounded  or  ill.  I  stop 
and  think:  "What  am  I  that  God  should  so  preserve  the 
precious  life  of  my  son  ?  Should  guard  his  health,  should 
guide  his  steps  ?  May  I  be  grateful  as  I  ought,  may  I  be 
more  trustful." 

We  have  so  hoped  we  might  see  you,  that  Hunt  and 
Mary  have  had  a  room  furnished  in  the  wing,  hoping  you 
would  be  the  first  to  occupy  it. 

13th.  I  wrote  Horace  a  day  or  two  since,  giving  an 
account  of  Gen.  Stevens'  death  from  your  letter,  saying 
if  it  possessed  any  interest  for  the  public  he  might  give  it 
to  Godwin  of  the  Post,  and  this  morning  I  saw  it  published 
there.1  I  am  p-lad,  because  so  little  has  been  said  of  this 
brave  man  by  any  of  the  New- York  papers  except  the 
Tribune.  I  have  written  Mrs.  Stevens  a  letter  of  sym- 
pathy for  her  loss.  I  wanted  her  to  know,  and  to  feel,  that 
the  Nation  weeps  for  her  illustrious  dead.  I  wrote  her 
I  took  the  liberty  of  offering  her  my  sympathy,  because 
personally  I  felt  her  husband's  loss  most  deeply  for  his 
kindness  to  my  son. 

Mr.  Benedict  is  below  in  the  library  with  Hunt.  His 
brother,  who  was  taken  prisoner  some  time  ago,  but  recently 

*N.  Y.  Evening  Post  of  Sept.  12th,  1862. 


WAR    LETTERS  197 

released,  has  been  appoint!  <\  Colonel  of  one  of  thi 
N.  Y.  regiments.  Our  Governoi  I  heai  excuses  his  want 
of  consideration  for  you,  by  saying  n  would  have  been 
different  if  you  bud  belonged  to  a  Conn.  Regiment,  so  i 
suppose  you  arc  considered  as  belonging  to  New- York. 
Good-bye,  my  own  dear  son.  God  bless  you  always. 
I  thank  him  for  your  perservation. 

Love  from  all  to  you,  and  kind  words  to  Major  Elliott. 

Lovingly, 

Mother. 
[After  the  Battle  of  South  Mountain] 
(J.  C.  Wyatt  to  E.  F.  Lusk) 

Middletown,  Md. 

Sept.   15th,   1862. 
Mrs.  Lusk: 

Capt.  Lusk  desired  me  to  pen  you  a  line,  as  he  did  not 
have  the  time  or  opportunity,  informing  you  that  he  has 
passed  through  another  bloody  and  fearful  carnage  and 
is  spared  and  in  good  health.  I  met  him  this  morning 
as  I  was  returning  to  the  General  Hospital  at  this  place. 
The  enemy  has  been  badly  beaten.  Our  Regt.  has  not 
suffered  much  comparatively.  You  have  reason  to  be 
proud  of  your  son.  May  God  bless  him  and  protect  him. 
Yours  truly, 

J  as.  C.  Wyatt, 

Chaplain  79th  N.   T.    V. 

Norwich,  Sept  16th,  1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  have  very  little  reason  to  believe  in  the  probability 
of  your  receiving  my  many  letters,  yet  I  continue  to  write 
with  the  bare  possibility  that  they  may  some  of  them 


198  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

reach  you.  Last  night  came  the  news  of  a  glorious  vic- 
tory for  us,  but  alas!  also  came  the  sad  and  sickening 
news  that  another  of  our  good  and  able  Generals  was 
killed.  In  the  general  rejoicing  my  heart  is  heavy,  for 
my  dear  son  was  in  Reno's  command  when  I  last  heard, 
and  I  am  looking  with  fear  and  dread  for  the  terrible  list 
to  come  from  that  battlefield.  How  my  God  is  trying 
me,  and  how  merciful  he  has  been  to  preserve  my  precious 
son  through  so  many  appalling  dangers!  My  heart  was 
so  full  of  sympathy  for  Mrs.  Stevens.  I  wrote  her  a  letter 
a  few  days  ago.  I  saw  that  her  husband  was  buried  at 
Newport,  and  an  extract  from  an  address  delivered  on 
the  occasion  impressed  me  wonderfully.  We  are  all 
occupied  by  the  same  train  of  thought,  deepened  in 
intensity  of  course  with  some  of  us,  by  the  danger  our 
loved  ones  are  in.  I  received  a  very  kind  letter  from 
Horace  a  few  days  since,  wherein  he  dwells  upon  the 
birth  of  your  reputation;  he  says  at  twenty-four  you  have 
won  honors  enough  to  suffice  for  a  life  time.  You  are 
not  forgotten  my  own  son,  my  heroic  boy.  Many  hearts 
are  watching,  eager  for  every  word  from  you.  The  extract 
from  your  letter  in  the  N.  T.  Post  has  attracted  the  atten- 
tion of  many  who  know  you  personally,  or  have  heard 
of  you.  They  say  the  account  is  interesting,  and  written 
too,  by  one  who  observes.   .  .  . 

17th.  To-day  our  rejoicing  is  somewhat  subdued  by  the 
news  of  the  surrender  of  our  forces  at  Harper's  Ferry. 
Burnside's  corps  is  said  to  have  fought  splendidly  at 
South  Mountain;  Reno's  Command  is  highly  compli- 
mented, not  a  man  faltered.  I  am  so  longing  for  another 
letter  from  you.  I  see  the  79th  was  in  the  recent  engage- 
ments. It  seems  they  are  always  where  work  is  to  be 
done.     I  saw  too  that  Capt.  Pier,  of  whom  I  have  heard 


WAR    LETTERS  i    i 

Dr.  Elliott  speak, was  slightly  wounded.  I  trust  you  have 
escaped  unhurt,  that  God's  good  angels  have  guarded 
you,  and  brought  you  safely  through.  I  noticed  the  names 
of  one  or  two  from  Co.  K,  79th,  among  the  wounded. 
Uncle  John's  faith  in  Gen.  Pope  remains  firm.  Mine  is 
lost,  yet  I  wish  all  to  receive  full  justice,  and  am  very 
glad  to  discover  merit  among  our  officers;  our  men  are 
almost  beyond  praise. 

Miss  Abby  Bond  (Dr.  Bond's  daughter)  is  to  be  married 
to-day,  to  a  Mr.  Adriance  from  St.  Louis.  Nannie  Day 
has  come  up  to  attend  the  wedding.  Hunt  is  in  good 
spirits  this  morning;  he  sends  love,  thinks  you  are  doing 
great  things,  and  hopes  the  ball  now  in  motion,  will 
move  until  the  great  end  for  which  it  was  started,  is  ac- 
complished. He  says  he  sees  McClellan  has  been  under 
a  chiropodist,  and  he  is  glad  to  see  so  glorious  a  result. 

Again,  good-bye,  my  own  dear  son.  I  pray  that  you, 
so  marvellously  preserved  as  a  soldier  of  our  country, 
may  likewise  always  remain  a  soldier  of  the  Cross.  God 
bless  you,  guard  you,  guide  you,  wherever  you  may  be. 

With  much  love  from  all,  I  remain,  my  precious  son, 

Always  your  loving 

Mother. 

[After  the  Battle  of  Sharpsburg  or  Antietam] 
(  Capt.  W.  T.  Lusk,  A.  A.  A.  Gen. 
1  st.  Brig.  1st.  Div.  gtb.  A.  C. 
Washington,  D.  C. 

(To  be  forwarded) 
Sept.   18th,   1862. 
My  dearest  Mother: 

After  the  battle  of  South  Mountain,  as  we  were  being 
pushed   on   to   this   point    (near   Sharpsburg),   unable   to 


Address 


200  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

write  myself,  the  Chaplain  of  the  79th  kindly  promised 
to  inform  you  of  my  safety.  Yesterday  there  was  an- 
other fierce  battle  in  which  I  took  an  active  part,  but 
he  who  lends  a  pitying  ear  to  the  prayers  of  the  widow 
and  the  fatherless,  vouchsafed  to  spare  me  in  the  time 
of  danger.  To-morrow  I  suppose  there  will  be  another 
battle,  so  to-night,  though  it  is  late,  I  write  you  hurriedly. 
Our  successes  in  Maryland  have  been  signal.  We  have 
been  cheered  for  the  bloodshed  of  the  past  few  days  by  the 
sight  of  a  retreating  foe.  God  grant  us  such  victories  as 
may  speedily  end  the  war.  All  wish  for  peace,  and  so 
are  willing  to  fight  with  desperation.  Our  division  has 
done  splendidly  so  far. 

I  long  to  hear  from  home.  Your  letter  of  the  25th  of 
August,  telling  me  that  I  was  an  unsuccessful  candidate 
for  position  in  the  18th  Conn.,  is  the  last  news  I  have 
received  from  home.  Well,  my  fate  is  the  fate  of  thou- 
sands. Those  of  us  who  have  borne  all  the  dangers  and 
privations  of  the  past,  have  no  pretensions  in  comparison 
with  such  as  can  control  a  few  votes  in  a  country  parish. 
I  have  taken  part  now  in  seven  grand  battles,  and  over 
a  half  dozen  smaller  engagements,  have  been  constantly 
in  service  for  fifteen  months,  have  received  the  most 
gratifying  expression  of  the  esteem  of  my  superior  offi- 
cers, but  promotion  is  not  the  result  of  service  accord- 
ing to  our  present  system.  In  my  old  position  as  Acting 
Asst.  Adjt. -General  to  the  Division,  with  a  change  of 
Generals,  I  was  superseded  by  a  private  of  the  7th  Regi- 
ment of  New- York,  who  received  a  Commission  from  the 
President.  This  is  perfectly  right,  as  each  General  must 
choose  his  own  Adjutant  and  form  his  own  staff.  Of 
the  fifteen  months  I  have  held  a  Commission,  fourteen 
months   I   have   held   acting  appointments,  that  is,  have 


WAR   LETTERS  201 

had    the    labor    and    responsibility    of     various    position. 

without  the  emolument.     I  am  now  Acting  A.  A.  General  to 

the  first  Brigade  of  tin's  division,  the  regular  p;iy  of  which 
position  is  between  $160  and  $170  per  month.  Holding 
only  an  acting  appointment  I  receive  ,$120.00.  There  is 
not  much  encouragement  in  this,  but  still  I  am  content  to 
be  of  any  assistance,  or  to  do  my  duty  in  any  position 
which  may  be  allotted  me.  I  fear  my  old  friends  who 
hoped  for  much,  feel  more  distressed  than  I  do.  I  saw 
Charley  Farnsworth  in  Washington.  He  feels  that  he  has 
done  much,  and  has  received  only  neglect  in  return.  His 
wound  troubles  him  still,  and  I  think  he  is  not  sorry  to 
make  it  a  pretext  for  quitting  a  service  where  there  is 
no  glory,  no  recognition  of  service  to  promote  and  foster 
a  soldier's  pride.  Charley  is  a  fine  fellow,  and  his  parents 
may  feel  proud  of  him. 

I  have  had  those  two  bad  teeth  of  mine  extracted. 
Tried  a  Regimental  Surgeon  first.  Surgeon  breaks  one 
of  them  off,  and  I  decline  to  have  the  experiment  repeated 
—  suffer  all  sorts  of  agony  for  about  a  month.  At  Fred- 
erick find  a  regular  dentist  who  feels  confident  that  he 
can  draw  any  tooth.  I  let  him  try  first  the  one  not  already 
partially  operated  upon.  Dentist  puts  on  the  forceps  and 
crushes  in  one  side,  then  cuts  the  gum,  tries  again  — 
pleasantly  assures  me  he  can  do  it,  and  crunch  goes  the 
old  tooth  again.  Dentist  grows  radiant  and  tells  how 
he  extracted  twelve  from  one  lady  the  day  before,  and  is 
more  confident  than  ever  that  he  can  do  it;  puts  on  his 
forceps  and  by  a  succession  of  wrenches  breaks  the  crown 
of  the  tooth,  lays  it  complacently  on  a  sheet  of  paper, 
and  says  that  is  just  what  he  most  ardently  desired;  makes 
another  effort,  smashes  the  root,  and  with  the  face  of  an 
angel,  tells  me  it's  all  right — that  now  he  can  do  it.     Here 


202  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

human  endurance  failed.  I  objected  to  any  further  tor- 
ture, took  chloroform,  sank  into  a  state  of  insensibility, 
recovered  minus  two  teeth,  and  all  right. 

Good-bye,  dear,  darling  mother,  keep  up  good  heart. 
God  is  merciful  as  well  as  just.     Love  to  all  the  dear  ones. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

Reinstatement  of  McClellan 
"  Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,"  p.  I. 

"The  campaigns  in  the  East  in  the  summer  of  1862  were  a  disappoint- 
ment to  the  North.  McClellan  and  the  Army  of  the  Potomac  not  only 
did  not  capture  Richmond  or  disable  the  Confederate  Army  of  Northern 
Virginia,  but  were  forced  back  from  the  furthest  point  of  their  advance. 
Though  they  inflicted  heavy  loss  upon  the  enemy,  they  suffered  heavy 
losses  themselves,  in  men,  guns,  and  property  of  all  kinds." 

Page  2.  "It  is  at  this  time,  when  the  Army  of  Virginia  and  the  Army 
of  the  Potomac  were  united  within  the  lines  constructed  for  the  defence  of 
Washington,  that  our  story  begins,  on  September  2d,  1862." 

Page  4.  General  McClellan  was  practically  without  a  command 
during  the  actions  of  the  last  days  of  August,  as  all  or  nearly  all  of  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  had  been  sent  to  join  Pope. 

"On  the  morning  of  the  2d"  (Sept.),  "McClellan  says:  'The 
President  and  General  Halleck  came  to  my  house,  when  the  President 
informed  me  .  .  .  that  the  army  was  in  full  retreat  upon  the  defences 
of  Washington.  .  .  .  He  instructed  me  to  take  steps  at  once  to  stop  and 
collect  the  stragglers;  to  place  the  works  in  a  proper  state  of  defence, 
and  to  go  out  to  meet  and  take  command  of  the  army.  .  .  .'  So  far  as 
appears,  this  verbal  order  of  the  President  was  the  only  one  by  which 
McClellan  was  reinstated  in  command,  and  there  does  not  seem  to 
have  been  any  order  issued  by  virtue  of  which  the  Army  of  Virginia 
ceased  to  exist.  .  .  .  McClellan's  talents  as  an  organizer  are  generally 
admitted,  and  there  is  no  doubt  that  at  the  date  of  which  we  are  writing 
he  was  extremely  popular  with  his  men.  As  all  pressure  of  the  enemy 
was  removed,  as  we  have  seen,  on  the  day  after  the  President  directed 
him  to  take  command  of  the  army,  he  had  a  breathing-space  in  which  to 
provide  for  the  defences  of  Washington  and  to  reorganize  his  army,  but 
as  the  information  which  he  received  on  the  3d  led  him  to  believe  that  the 
enemy  intended  to  cross  the  upper  Potomac  into  Maryland,  it  was  neces- 
sary that  the  process  of  reorganization  should  go  on  while  the  troops 
were  moving." 

Page  16.  "Lee's  plan  was  a  good  one.  .  .  .  Whether  he  knew  or 
even  suspected  how  heavily  the  brave  and  loyal  and  long-suffering  Army 


WAR    LETTERS 


20  i 


of  the  Potomac  was  handicapped  by  the  miserable  jealousies,  civil  and 

military,  that  prevailed  at  tin   time,  I  annot  be  told." 

Page  20.  On  Sept.  13th,  Lee's  ordei  designating  the  movements  of 
his  several  divisions,  and  Betting  forth  the  plan  of  attack  on  Harper's 

Ferry,  (ell   into   McClellan's  hands. 

Page  22.  "The  finding  ol  this  paper  was  a  piect  '■!  rare  good  for- 
tune. It  placed  the  Army  of  Northern  Virginia  at  the  mercy  of 
McClellan,  provided  only  tli.it  lie  came  up  wit h  it  and  struck  whilt  its 
separation  continued.  .  .  .  The  case  called  for  the  utmost  exertion 
and  the  utmost  speed.  .  .  .  Not  a  moment  should  have  been  lost  in  push- 
ing his  columns  detailed  lor  the  left  and  right  advance,  through  the 
South  Mountain  passes.  ...  It  cannot  be  said  that  he  did  not  act  with 
considerable  energy,  but  he  did  not  act  with  sufficient." 

The  Battle  of  South  Mountain 
Sept.  14th,  1862 

"  Antictam  and  Fredericksburg." 

The  South  Mountain  passes  had  to  be  crossed  to  bring  relief  to 
Harper's  Ferry,  and  the  author  shows  how  McClellan,  by  making  a 
night  march  on  Sept.  13th,  could  have  occupied  this  strategic  position 
before  the  arrival  of  Lee's  troops. 

Page  30.  "We  know  now  that  if  he  had  marched  no  further  than  to 
the  foot  of  the  range  that  night,  a  distance  which  he  ought  to  have  accom- 
plished by  midnight,  he  could  have  passed  through  it  the  next  morning 
substantially  unopposed,  and  that  advantage  gained,  the  Federal  army 
ought  to  have  relieved  Harper's  Ferry  or  fatally  separated  the  wings  of 
Lee's  army,  or  both." 

Page  40.  "The  great  fact  remains  that  the  two  battles  of  South 
Mountain  were  tactical  defeats  to  the  Confederates,  but  strategical 
victories  won  by  them.  General  Hill  was  right  in  saying,  'We  retreated 
that  night  to  Sharpsburg,  having  accomplished  all  that  was  required, 
the  delay  of  the  Yankee  army  until  Flarper's  Ferry  could  not  be  relieved.'" 

"Rebellion  Record,"  Vol.  V,  p.  432  of  Documents. 

Despatch  from   General  McClellan  to  H.   JV.  Halleck,  General-in-Chief, 
dated  Sunday,  Sept.  I  Jib,  Q:J.O  P.  M. 

"After  a  very  severe  engagement,  the  corps  of  Gen.  Hooker  and  Gen. 
Reno  have  carried  the  heights  commanding  the  Hagerstown  road  bv 
storm.  The  troops  behaved  magnificently  —  they  never  fought  better. 
.  .  .  The  action  continued  until  after  dark,  and  terminated,  leaving  us 
in  possession  of  the  entire  crest. 

"It  has  been  a  glorious  victory.  I  cannot  yet  tell  whether  the  enemy 
will  retreat  during  the  night,  or  appear  in  increased  force  during  the 
morning. 


204  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

"I  regret  to  add  that  the  gallant  and  able  Gen.  Reno  is  killed." 

Despatch   of  General  McClellan   to    H.    W.   Halleck,  dated   Sept.   13th, 
io  a.  m.  p.  433. 

"Information  this  moment  received,  completely  confirms  the  rout  and 
demoralization  of  the  rebel  army.   ..." 

Part  of  Gen.  Cox's  report,      p.  434. 

Headquarters  Kanawha  Division, 
Ninth  Army  Corps, 

Sept.  20th,  1862. 

Sir:  I  have  the  honor  to  submit  the  following  report  of  the  part 
taken  by  the  Kanawha  division,  Ninth  Army  Corps,  Major-General 
Burnside  commanding,  in  the  battle  of  South  Mountain:  At  six  o'clock 
on  the  morning  of  September  14th,  the  division  marched  from  Middle- 
town,  under  an  order  received  by  me  from  Major-General  Reno,  direct- 
ing me  to  support  with  my  division  the  advance  of  Gen.  Pleasanton, 
who,  with  his  brigade  of  cavalry  and  artillery,  was  moving  up  the 
Hagerstown  turnpike,  toward  the  positions  of  the  enemy  in  the  pass  of 
South  Mountain.  ...  It  soon  became  evident  the  enemy  held  the  crest 
in  considerable  force,  and  the  whole  division  was  ordered  to  advance  to 
the  assault  of  the  position,  word  being  received  from  Major-General 
Reno  that  the  column  would  be  supported  by  the  whole  corps.   .  .   . 

About  4  o'clock  p.  M.  most  of  the  reinforcements  being  in  posi- 
tion, the  order  was  received  to  advance  the  whole  line,  and  take  or 
silence  the  enemy's  batteries  immediately  in  front.  The  order  was 
immediately  obeyed,  and  the  advance  was  made  with  the  utmost 
enthusiasm.  The  enemy  made  a  desperate  resistance,  charging  our 
advancing  lines  with  fierceness,  but  they  were  everywhere  routed  and 
fled  with  precipitation.  .  .  .  About  seven  o'clock  still  another  effort 
to  regain  the  lost  ground  was  made  by  the  rebels  in  front  of  the  position 
of  Gen.  Sturgis's  division,  and  part  of  the  Kanawha  division.  This 
attack  was  more  persistent,  and  a  very  lively  fire  was  kept  up  for  about  an 
hour,  but  they  were  again  repulsed,  and  under  cover  of  the  night  re- 
treated in  mass  from  our  entire  front.  Just  before  sunset  Major-General 
Reno  was  killed  while  making  a  reconnoissance  at  the  front.  .  .  .  The 
conduct  of  both  officers  and  men  was  everything  that  could  be  desired, 
and  everyone  seemed  stimulated  by  the  determination  not  to  be  excelled 
in  any  soldierly  quality. 

Very  respectfully, . 

Your  obedient  servant, 

J.  D.   Cox, 
Brig.-General,  Commanding  Kanawha  Division. 


WAR   LET]  ERS  205 

General  Ilurnsule' s  order  on  the  death  "j  General  Reno.  p.  437. 

"The  Commanding  General  announces  to  the  COrpi  the  loif  o(  theil 
late  leader,  Major-General  [esse  L.  Reno.  By  the  death  oi  this  dis- 
tinguished officer  the  country  loses  one  oi  Its  most  devoted  patriots,  tin- 
army  one  of  its  most  thorough  soldiers,    in  the  long  list  oi  battles  in 

which  Gen.   Reno  has   fought    in  his   country's  service  his   name   a  I  v. 

appears  with  the  brightest  lustre,  and  he  has  now  bravely  nut  a  sol- 
dier's   death    while    gallantly    leading    his    men   at  the  battle  of  South 

Mountain.  For  his  high  character  and  the  kindly  qualities  of  his  head 
in  private  life,  as  well  as  for  the  military  genius  and  personal  daring 
which  marked  him  as  a  soldier,  his  loss  will  he  deplored  hy  all  who 
knew  him,  and  the  Commanding  General  desires  to  add  the  tribute 
of  a  friend  to  the  public  mourning  for  the  death  of  one  of  the  country's 
best  defenders." 

""jgtb  Highlanders,"  p.  233. 

The  Highlanders  were  among  the  troops  that  stormed  and  took  the 
South  Mountain  heights,  turning  the  right  of  the  enemy's  line. 

"  In  order  to  escape  the  bullets  which  they  showered  on  our  advanced 
position,  we  lay  down,  some  of  us  falling  "asleep  while  the  bullets  were 
cutting  the  tops  of  the  corn-stalks  above  our  heads." 

The  Surrender  of  Harper's  Ferry 
"Rebellion  Record"  Vol.  V,  p.  439  of  Documents. 

Harper's  Ferry  surrendered  at  8  a.  m.,  September  15,  on  the  third 
day  of  the  defence,  the    ammunition  having  become  exhausted. 

Page  448.  Confederate  General  Jackson  says  in  a  despatch  dated 
September  16th:  "Yesterday  God  crowned  our  arms  with  another 
brilliant  success  on  the  surrender,  at  Harper's  Ferry,  of  Brigadier- 
General  White  and  11,000  troops,  an  equal  number  of  small  arms, 
73  pieces  of  artillery,  and  about  200  wagons.  In  addition  to  other 
stores,  there  is  a  large  amount  of  camp  and  garrison  equipage.  Our 
loss  was  very  small." 

Battle  of  Sharpsburg  or  Antietam 
Sept.  17,  1862 

"Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,"  p.  47. 

In  attributing  to  McClellan  a  lack  of  expedition  in  his  pursuit  of  Lee 
after  the  battle  of  South  Mountain,  Palfrey  says: 

"If  he  had  used  the  priceless  hours  of  the  15th  of  September,  and  the 
still  precious,  though  less  precious  hours  of  the  16th,  as  he  might  have, 
his  name  would  have  stood  high  in  the  roll  of  great  commanders;    but 


2o6  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

he  let  those  hours  go  by,  and  ...  it  took  him  forty-eight  hours  to  get 
ready  to  deliver  his  main  attack,  and  then  he  had  to  deal  not  only  with 
Lee  and  Longstreet  and  Hood  and  D.  H.  Hill,  but  with  all  of  them 
with  Stonewall  Jackson  added  with  two  of  his  divisions." 

Page  53.     The  author  says  of  McClellan: 

"He  was  a  man  of  short  and  solid  figure,  good  carriage,  and  singularly 
pleasing  manners.  He  was  never  in  a  hurry,  and  always  seemed  to 
have  plenty  of  time  at  his  command.  He  had  shown  marked  ability 
as  an  organizer,  and  his  men  generally  felt  an  almost  idolatrous  enthu- 
siasm for  him.  .  .  .  After  Pope's  defeat,  the  army  turned  to  him  pas- 
sionately and  the  people  hopefully,  and  the  time  was  now  coming  that 
was  to  test  the  question  of  his  talents." 

Page  56.  "On  the  afternoon  of  the  hot  fifteenth  of  September,  while 
the  long  columns  of  the  Federal  Army  were  resting  along  the  Boons- 
boro'  Road,  General  McClellan  passed  through  them  to  the  front,  and 
had  from  them  such  a  magnificent  reception  as  was  worth  living  for. 
Far  from  the  rear  the  cheers  were  heard,  faintly  at  first,  and  gradually 
the  sound  increased  and  grew  to  a  roar  as  he  approached.  The  weary 
men  sprang  to  their  feet  and  cheered  and  cheered,  and  as  he  went  the 
cheers  went  before  him  and  with  him  and  after  him,  till  the  sound  reced- 
ing with  the  distance  at  last  died  away.  The  troops  moved  on  later, 
slowly  and  wearily,  and  some  of  them  were  not  in  position  till  the  next 
morning. 

"Gen.  McClellan  says  that  after  a  rapid  examination  of  the  position, 
he  found  it  was  too  late  to  attack  on  Monday"  (Sept.  15).  "He  does 
not  say  at  what  hour  he  reached  the  front,  but  ...  it  was  well  into  the 
afternoon.  ...  So  all  this  day,  the  15th  of  September,  Lee  stood  in 
front  of  Sharpsburg  with  the  troops  of  Longstreet  and  D.  H.  Hill 
alone,  while  the  whole  army  of  the  Potomac,  excepting  Franklin's 
command,  was  near  him. 

"Tuesday  the  sixteenth  was  a  terribly  hot  day  in  its  early  hours, 
with  a  burning  sun  and  no  breeze.  ...  It  was  a  day  of  mere  idleness 
throughout,  for  a  large  part  of  the  army.  .  .  . 

"On  the  morning  of  this  day  Jackson  arrived  at  Sharpsburg  with 
his  own  division  .  .  .   and  Ewell's  division." 

Page  119.  "Tactically,  the  battle  of  the  Antietam  was  a  drawn 
battle,  with  the  advantage  inclining  slightly  to  the  side  of  the  Federals, 
who  gained  some  ground  and  took  more  trophies  than  they  lost.  The 
Confederates,  however,  held  most  of  the  ground  on  which  they  fought, 
and  held  it  not  only  to  the  close  of  the  battle,  but  for  more  than  twenty- 
four  hours  after,  and  then  retired,  unmolested  and  in  good  order.  The 
steady  tramp  of  their  retreating  columns,  like  the  steady  flowing  of  a 
river,  was  heard  all  through  the  still  night  of  the  18th  of  September,  as 
they  streamed  along  the  road  to  the  Shepherdstown  ford  of  the  Potomac. 
But,  for  an  invading  army,  a  drawn  battle  is  a  little  less  than  a  lost  battle, 
and  so  it  was  in  this  case.     Lee  drew  off  successfully  and  defiantly,  but 


WAR   LETTERS  207 

the  invasion  of  Maryland  was  at  an  end.      Of    \1<  ( 'Idlan's  rondint   of 

this  battle  there  is  little  10  be  said  in  tin-  way  of  praise  beyond  the  fact 

that  lu:  did   fight  it    voluntarily,  without    having  it    forced    upon   lum." 

Page  i2z.    "Moth  McClellan  and  Sumnei  exhibited  their  defici 
in  those  qualities  which  appear  to  bi  Grant's  most  valuabh  endowmi 
—  absolutely  clear  perception  ol  the  end  to  In-  attained,  absoluti 

bility  to  cost  so  long  as  the  end  appears  attainable,  and  nevei  forg<  'ting 
and  always  acting  upon  the  theory  that  when  both  sides  are  about  ex- 
hausted, then  is  the  time  to  push,  and  that  he  who  pushes  then  will  hud 
the  other  side  give  way." 

Page  127.  "General  McClellan  decided  not  to  renew  the  attack 
on  the  1 8th.  .  .  .  Orders  were  given  by  McClellan  for  a  renewal  of  the 
attack  at  daylight  on  the  19th,  but  at  daylight  on  the  19th  Lee  was 
gone." 

"ygtb  Highlanders,"  p.  243. 

"The  next  morning"  (i8th)"we  expected  to  renew  the  battle,  but  all 
remained  quiet  along  the  line,  except  for  the  exchange  of  shots  between 
the  picket  lines.  The  enemy  could  be  distinctly  seen  occupying  the 
position  they  held  late  the  previous  afternoon,  and  we  wondered  why 
McClellan  did  not  at  once  press  forward  and  secure  the  fruits  of  the  vic- 
tory won  the  day  before.  We  all  believed  that  a  decisive  victory  was 
within  our  grasp,  and  chafed  at  the  apparently  uncalled-for  delay." 

"War  of  the  Rebellion,"  Series  I,  Vol.  XIX,  p.  438. 
Col.   Christ's  Report. 

Hdqrs.  First  Brig.  First  Div.  Ninth  Army  Corps, 

Antietam  Creek,  Md.,  September  21st,  1862. 

Sir:  I  respectfully  submit  the  following  report  of  the  part  borne 
by  my  command  in  the  engagement  near  Sharpsburg,  on  Wednesday, 
September  17th,  1862. 

About  10  o'clock  a.m.  I  was  ordered  to  support  some  batteries  cover- 
ing our  advance  near  the  stone  bridge  across  Antietam  Creek.  During 
the  afternoon  I  crossed  the  bridge  and  marched  to  the  right,  and  parallel 
with  the  stream,  for  several  hundred  yards.  I  here  deployed  the  Seventv- 
ninth  New- York  Volunteers  as  skirmishers,  supported  by  the  Fiftieth 
Pennsylvania,  Twenty-eighth  Massachusetts,  and  Seventeenth  Michi- 
gan Volunteers,  and  then  moved  forward  in  front  of  the  enemy's  battery 
(heavily  supported  by  infantry),  in  the  rear  of  a  corn-field,  on  the  right 
of  the  road.  On  reaching  the  crest  of  a  hill,  about  350  yards  in  front  of 
the  battery,  I  discovered  that  my  support  on  my  left  had  not  come  up. 
Deeming  my  force  alone  inadequate  for  the  attack  on  both  artillery  and 
infantry,  I  was  obliged  to  halt  until  supported  on  my  left. 

While  halting  under  cover  from  the  enemy  directly  in  front,  he  opened 
a  battery  on  my  left  which  commanded  my  whole  line  from  left  to  right, 


2o8  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

and  for  thirty  minutes  we  were  under  a  most  severe  fire  of  round  shot, 
shell,  grape,  and  canister,  and  suffered  severely.  It  was  impossible  to 
move  forward  for  the  reason  before  stated  —  no  place  in  the  neighbor- 
hood that  afforded  any  cover  —  and  the  alternative  presented  itself 
either  to  retire  from  a  good  and  only  position  from  which  to  advance  on 
the  enemy- in  front,  or  to  wait  patiently  until  some  demonstration  on  the 
left  would  compel  him  to  change  the  direction  of  his  fire.  Again,  I  could 
not  get  under  cover  without  retiring  at  least  250  yards,  in  full  view  of 
the  enemy,  and  if  there  would  have  been  the  least  confusion  the  men 
might  have  retreated  in  disorder,  and  exposed  a  larger  and  more  dis- 
ordered front  to  his  fire,  which  would  have  largely  increased  the  list  of 
casualties.  I  chose  the  former,  and  was  gratified  by  having  my  expec- 
tations realized. 

A  demonstration  on  the  left  compelled  the  enemy  to  change  the  direc- 
tion of  his  fire,  and  my  supports  coming,  we  moved  to  the  front,  where 
we  engaged  the  enemy  on  his  left,  and  in  about  one  hour  succeeded  in 
driving  both  his  artillery  and  infantry  from  the  position.  I  charged 
on  the  battery  with  the  Seventeenth  Michigan  Regiment  (this  being  the 
regiment  immediately  in  front),  supported  by  the  Fiftieth  Pennsyl- 
vania and  Twenty-eighth  Massachusetts  Volunteers,  but  when  within 
100  yards  of  his  guns  (and  while  he  was  covered  by  a  hill  which  pre- 
vented my  advance  column  from  shooting  either  his  horses  or  their 
riders),  he  limbered  up  his  pieces  and  retired.  I  did  not  deem  it  pru- 
dent to  advance  after  his  artillery  had  retired,  for  the  reason  that  the 
woods  were  lined  with  his  sharpshooters,  and  I  would  only  have  exposed 
my  command  to  their  fire  without  gaining  anything.  I  retired  with  my 
charging  party  to  my  line  of  battle,  and  maintained  my  position  until 
ordered  to  take  another  farther  down  and  near  the  bridge,  where  the 
men  slept  on  their  arms  for  the  night. 

In  this  engagement  it  is  impossible  to  particularize  regiments,  officers, 
or  men,  for,  from  the  moment  we  were  brought  under  fire  until  ordered 
to  retire  near  the  bridge,  all  displayed  the  utmost  coolness  and  courage, 
ready  and  prompt  to  move  forward  at  the  word  of  command,  and  both 
officers  and  men  vying  with  each  other  in  the  discharge  of  their  duty. 
My  especial  acknowledgments  are,  however,  due  to  my  Acting  Assist- 
ant Adjutant-General,  Capt.  William  T.  Lusk,  for  the  assistance 
rendered  me  not  only  during  this  but  also  during  the  engagement  of 
the  14th. 

All  of  which  is  respectfully  submitted. 

B.  C.  Christ, 
Colonel,  Commanding  First  Brigade. 


WAR    LET1  ERS  209 

"Rebellion  Record"  Vol.  Vt  p.  4/»<j  of  Documents. 
General  Wilcox  1  Order, 

Headquarters  Ninth  Army  Corf  , 

Antietam  Creek,  Sept.  22,  181 

General  Order   No.   12.  —  If  is  with  thi  that 

tlic  BrigadieM  Iriin  ill  <  <  >r  j  1 1  n :  1 1 1  ( 1 1 1 1  < '  tin-  I  11  1  Division,  announces  to 
the  officers  and  men  of  the  command,  Ms  entire  satisfaction  with  the 
manner  in  which  they  fought  in  the  bloody  battles  of  South  Mountain 
and  Sharpsburgk,  No  troops  in  Europe  could  have  done  better. 
The  insolent  enemy,  flushed  with  the  late  successes,  choosing  their 
own  position,  and  led  by  their  most  talented  generals,  have  b«  n  met 
in  desperate  contest  and  hurled  from  the  soil  they  had  invaded. 

We  have  home  no  mean  part  in  these  victories,  won  for  the  glorious 
Union  and  Constitution  without  which  life  is  worth  nothing,  and  for 
the  defence  of  which  we  are  still  ready  to  die. 

Soldiers!  In  our  rejoicings  let  us  drop  a  manly  tear  for  those  who  have 
fallen  by  our  sides,  and  for  the  brave  men  of  our  division,  whose  spirits 
have  fled  to  new  scenes  of  glory. 

The  names  of  "South  Mountain"  and  "Sharpsburgh,"  will  be 
inscribed  on  the  respective  regimental  colors. 

By  order  of 

Brigadier-General  Wilcox. 

Headquarters  1st  Brig. 

1st  Div.  9th  Army  Corps, 

Sept.  22d,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Heigh-ho!  I  do  wish  I  could  hear  from  home.  We  are 
promised  a  mail  to-day,  but  I  am  not  certain  if  my  letters 
will  reach  me.  I  get  piles  of  papers  which  travel  down 
to  South  Carolina,  make  the  tour  of  half  the  continent, 
and  finally  inundate  me  with  news  eight  or  ten  weeks 
old;  but  the  letters — where  do  they  go  to?  I  asked 
Genl.  Burnside's  Postmaster  this  question  the  other  dav. 
"Why  let  me  see"  was  his  answer,  "there  were  some  letters 
for  you.  I  remember  the  name.  Its  a  queer  sort  of  a 
name.  Now  where  can  they  have  gone  to  ? "  Consolatorv, 
was  it  not  ?    Here   I   am  full  of  anxiety,   and   no  relief. 


2io  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

However  most  of  us  here  stand  on  the  same  footing.  We 
are  resting  now  from  past  labors,  near  the  mouth  of  An- 
tietam  Creek  where  it  empties  into  the  Potomac.  This 
rest  is  indeed  grateful  to  us  all,  for  we  were  pretty  well 
exhausted,  ridding  Maryland  of  its  invaders.  The  rest 
can't  last  long  though,  I  suppose.  If  possible  I  am  going 
to  abandon  the  immediate  pursuit  of  arms,  and  return 
to  medicine.  Dr.  McDonald,  Surgeon  of  the  79th,  urges 
me  very  strongly  to  accept  the  position  as  his  2nd  assist- 
ant, and  has  well-nigh  persuaded  me  that  I  could  do 
more  good  in  that  position  than  anyone  he  would  be  apt 
to  get  elsewhere.  I  would  like  this  first-rate,  but  how  to 
accomplish  the  transfer  from  Brigade-Adjutant  to  Asst. 
Surgeon?  The  Government  is  not  very  obliging  in 
these  matters,  and  it  is  too  difficult  a  thing  to  work,  for 
me  to  hope  much.  I  have  a  pretty  good  time  now  — 
am  not  too  much  pressed  with  work.  The  Col.  command- 
ing the  Brigade  treats  me  with  flattering  consideration, 
and  I  believe  myself  generally  respected  and  beloved 
in  the  Brigade.  I  am  not  consequently  very  unhappy, 
am  rather  jolly  than  otherwise.  Still  I  feel  neglected, 
and  have  abandoned  anything  like  military  aspirations. 
It  is  vain  to  refer  to  long  service,  or  to  the  estimation  in 
which  I  have  been  held  by  commanding  officers  as  shown 
on  the  records  of  the  Division  from  the  first.  I  cannot 
but  feel  that  had  I  stayed  at  home  until  these  last  levies 
were  raised,  I  might  have  held  a  much  more  responsible 
position  than  my  present  one.  I  have  abandoned  in 
future  all  care  or  thought  of  promotion,  and  content 
myself  with  doing  simply  and  purely  my  duty.  Now 
my  precious  mother,  if  I  am  querulous,  don't  let  it  trouble 
you.  I  do  not  mind  it  myself.  I  only  write  as  I  do  to 
show  you  how  it  is  that  my  feelings  have  so  changed  since 


WAR    LKTTKKS  211 

we  parted.  You  c-'in  remember  how  indignantly  I  re- 
pulsed every  suggestion  as  to  my  entering  the  army  in 
connection  with  the  medical  service,  and  v<  t  would  very 
gladly  do  so  to-day  were  it  m  my  power.  As  for  the  rest, 
not  being  one  of  your  grand  and  gloomy  geniuses  opptf  <  d 
by  a  sense  of  their  own  merits,  and  the  world's  want  <>\ 
appreciation  of  them,  although  occasionally  exercising  a 
soldier's  privilege  to  grumble,  I  contrive  to  keep  up  my 
spirits,  like  a  Mark  Tapley  in  the  township  of  Eden. 
Bother!  I  would  like  to  see  you  all.  Master  Turly 
must  wear  breeches  with  pockets  in  them.  Master  Will 
has  doubtless  grown  large  enough  to  bully  smaller  boys 
than  himself.  (Such  things  are  possible  my  dear  sister 
Mary,  though  I  grant  the  improbability  in  this  particular 
case).  Lilly  and  Tom  have  grown  staid  and  domestic. 
Walter  can  hear  the  heir-apparent  talked  about  without 
blushing.  Both  the  Ellens  make  charming  young  mothers. 
The  old  house,  Hunt  and  Mary,  and  then  my  mother 
thinking  of  an  absent  scapegrace  who  now  sits  in  his 
shirt-sleeves,  having  laid  aside  his  shabby  war-worn 
regimentals,  and  wants  to  be  remembered  lovingly  by  all 
his  friends!    Oh  bother! 

AfFec'y., 
W7ill. 
Cap.  (Jf  A.  A.  A.  G. 


Mouth  of  Antietam  Creek, 
79th  Regiment, 

Sept.  28th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I   have  been   sitting  smoking  my  pipe  by  moonlight, 
pleasantly  chatting  with  my  old  friend   Dr.   McDonald, 


212  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

till  remembering  my  anxious  mother,  I  have  returned  to 
say  cheering  words  to  that  most  estimable  and  precious 
lady.  At  last  your  kind  pains  have  been  rewarded.  A 
mail-bag  has  arrived  from  Washington,  and  made  me 
the  happy  possessor  of  nine  letters.  What  a  treasure! 
Eight  from  you,  and  one  full  of  kindness  from  dear  Lilly 
who  promises  moreover  to  write  me  more,  though  I  should 
prove  a  negligent  correspondent  myself.  Tell  her  to 
do  so  by  all  means.  Such  proofs  of  love  are  very  delight- 
ful. I  wrote  you  last,  that  I  was  entertaining  some  idea 
of  joining  McDonald  as  his  Asst.  Surgeon.  We  had  the 
thing  all  nicely  arranged  —  had  consulted  and  received 
the  approval  of  the  Medical  Director,  when  a  young  man 
presents  himself  duly  commissioned  for  the  position  by 
the  Governor  of  New- York.  My  lucky  star  is  not  in  the 
ascendant. 

Another  change  has  taken  place  in  my  affairs.  A  new 
brigade  has  been  formed,  and  the  79th  Highlanders  trans- 
ferred to  it.  I  was  obliged  to  follow  with  my  Regiment, 
and  consequently  resigned  the  position  of  A.  A.  A.  G. 
to  the  old  Brigade.  The  same  position  was  offered  me 
in  the  New  Brigade,  but,  not  liking  the  Brigadier,  I  de- 
clined the  honor.  So  now  I  am  back  again,  a  simple 
Captain  in  the  79th,  sole  commander  in  chief  of  a  com- 
pany numbering  some  20  effective  men.  So  much  for 
"Glory."  It  may  perhaps  console  you  that  Col.  Christ, 
who  had  charge  of  five  Regiments  in  the  late  battles, 
writes  in  his  reports:  "While  I  have  reason  to  commend 
in  general  the  conduct  of  the  officers  of  my  command,  my 
special  thanks  are  due  to  Capt.  Lusk  for  the  valuable  ser- 
vices he  rendered  me."  I  quote  it  (as  nearly  as  I  can 
remember)  because  in  the  mass  of  reports  which  are  sent 
in,  few,  if  any,  will  ever  come  to  light  again. 


WAR    LKTTKRS  213 

I  am  glad  you  proposed  to  visit  M;ij.  Llhott  in  New 
London.  lie  is  a  warm  and  true  friend  of  mine.  I  wrote 
Horace  to-day  quite  ;i  long  letter.  Hunt's  letter,  recom- 
mending me  to  accept  the  position  of  Aide  on  General 
Tyler's  stafF  came  too  late.  I  could  not  apply  for  it,  as 
a  Brigadier  is  not  entitled  to  an  Aide  beyond  the  rani  of 
Lieut.,  unless  the  officer  receives  his  commission  direct 
from  the  President.  With  Stevens  I  was  simply  detached 
for  StafF  duties.  This  could  be  done  inside,  hut  not 
outside,  of  the  Brigade  I  may  be  attached  to.  I  could 
therefore  accept  by  Army  Regulations  nothing  less  than 
the  position  of  Asst.  Adjt. -General.  Otherwise  I  would 
have  fancied  the  thing  right  well,  as,  having  consigned 
all  ambitious  project  to  him  who  is  said  to  be  the  Father 
of  them,  I  would  like  very  much  to  see  something  of  cam- 
paigning in  the  West,  and  the  Western  country.  We  are 
now  resting,  recruiting,  and  getting  ready  for  new  deeds. 
I  trust  we  have  inaugurated  victory  now,  and  mean  to 
hear  nothing  more  of  Manassas. 

Great  must  Uncle  John's  faith  be,  if  he  still  believes 
in  Pope.  I  am  sure  there  was  not  a  man  in  his  army, 
who  had  any  confidence  in  his  capacity,  even  previous 
to  his  final  disasters.  We  all  considered  him  a  very 
noisy,  pretentious  liar. 

It  is  now  so  late  that  I  must  say-Good-Bye. 

Affec'y., 
Will. 
jgtb  Regiment,  1st  Brigade,  1st  Div. 
gtb  Army  Corps. 


2i4  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

79th  Regiment, 
Near  Antietam  Creek, 

Sept.  28th,   1862. 
My  dear  Horace: 

Here  we  are,  still  resting  at  the  mouth  of  this  muddy 
little  stream  now  famous  and  historical.  Ten  days  have 
gone  since  the  battle  and  yet  there  are  no  signs  of  bustle 
and  busy  preparation  aiming  at  the  destruction  of  our 
dirty  foes  on  the  other  side  of  the  river.  I  say, "  Forward ! " 
To  think  of  hesitating  before  such  a  pitiful  crew  as  those 
we  have  so  lately  beaten!  You  perceive  our  recent  suc- 
cesses are  making  us  forget  Manassas.  But  McClellan 
is  cautious,  and,  without  intending  any  disparagement, 
does  not  possess  that  lightning  rapidity  which  character- 
ized the  "old  Napoleon."  Yet  we  of  the  Army  are  jeal- 
ous of  McClellan's  reputation  and  fear  the  possibility 
of  losing  him.  Not  indeed  because  we  believe  him 
equal  to  the  command  of  600,000  men  —  we  believe 
him  simply  the  best  general  we  have  got,  and  do  not 
trust  the  judgment  of  old  Abe  in  the  selection  of  a  new 
one.  Pope,  Sigel,  Fremont,  and  the  whole  batch  of  our 
political  Generals  are  objects  of  honest  terror  to  every 
soldier  in  the  Union  Army.  Stevens  was  a  better  man 
than  McClellan.  His  judgment  was  unerring,  his  fore- 
sight marvellous,  his  prophecies  sure  of  fulfilment.  He 
had  a  power  to  electrify  troops,  and  lift  them  at  the  critical 
moment  to  a  degree  of  enthusiasm  that  was  inspiration. 
He  could  be  cautious  and  crafty,  as  well  as  daring.  He 
felt  himself  born  to  hold  the  reins  of  authority,  and  grasped 
them  so  that  the  steady  hand  was  felt  by  the  commonest 
soldier  of  his  command.  Soldiers  all  loved  him,  and 
recognized  his  strength  as  it  were  by  instinct.  He  knew 
how  to  deal  a  hard  blow,  and  deal  it  with  rapidity.     He 


WAR    LK'ITKRS  215 

never  underestimated  a  difficulty,  l)iit  his  estimates  were 
forestallments  of  history.  What  h<-  possessed  in  an  emi- 
nent degree  was  Power  -and  Power  composed  of  rude 
strength  and  natural  vi^or.  Wh.it  he  lacked  was  comeli- 
ness. This,  culture  could  not  give  him.  1 1<-  needed  a 
grand  sphere  in  which  to  move.  J  hen  he  would  have 
been  grand.  Confined,  one  could  detect  what  was 
gnarled  and  ungainly.  The  oak  is  the  monarch  in  the 
midst  of  the  forest,  not  in  the  garden.  Among  flowers, 
neat  trimmed  box  shows  to  the  best  advantage.  There 
was  something  about  Stevens  that  offended  little  souls, 
and  there  were  many  little  souls  who  hated  him.  He 
had  such  a  galling  way  of  expressing  his  detestation  at 
what  deserves  contempt,  that  many  felt  themselves 
offended  thereby.  He  had  many  enemies  and  many 
friends,  but  those  who  knew  him  best  mourn  his  loss 
most  deeply.  The  neglect  and  injustice  shown  him  in 
his  life  time  broke  his  heart.  He  is  dead  now  and  at 
peace. 

To-day  I  received  nine  letters,  the  first  I  have  seen 
in  many  a  day.  Some  of  them  are  very  old,  but  they 
afforded  a  rare  treat  for  all  that.  In  one  of  them  my 
mother  writes  she  had  received  a  letter  from  you,  in  which 
you  wrote  that  I  had  glory  enough  at  twenty-four  to  last 
me  for  a  life  time.  Ah,  my  dear  Horace,  there  was  rare 
irony  in  that!  I  acknowledge  it.  I  have  had  "glory" 
enough  to  last  me  for  a  life  time.  I  am  satisfied  with 
what  I've  had  of  the  article  and  am  willing  in  future  to 
dispense  with  any  further  accessions.  See  what  a  valu- 
able thing  it  is!  A  few  days  ago  I  enjoyed  high  favor, 
I  went  into  fresh  battles,  and  the  records  show  fresh 
praises  from  my  Commanding  Officers.  Christ,  who 
commanded  a   Brigade  of  five  Regiments  in  the  recent 

o  0 


216  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

battles  writes  in  his  report:  "While  the  officers  of  my 
command  in  general  conducted  themselves  well,  my 
special  thanks  are  due  to  Capt.  Lusk  for  the  valuable 
services  he  rendered  me."  Now  for  the  rewards  of  ser- 
vice. I  have  to-day  the  command  of  14  men,  six  of 
them  old  soldiers  that  grumble,  and  eight  raw  recruits 
who  are  learning  the  mysteries  of  the  goose-step.  Sic 
itur  ad  astra.  There's  glory  for  you.  I  acknowledge 
I  have  had  enough  to  satisfy  me  for  the  rest  of  my 
life.  I  have  not  been  persecuted  in  any  way.  The  whole 
thing  is  the  result  of  natural  causes  which  could  not  be 
avoided.  Fortune  simply  played  me  a  sorry  trick.  Friends 
say,  "Resign."  But  I  am  not  willing  to  be  petulant. 
If  disgusted  with  "glory,"  I  believe  in  a  better  word,  and 
that  is  —  duty.  So  I  have  turned  to,  tried  to  stop  the 
grumbling  of  the  old  soldiers,  and  get  the  recruits  to 
do  the  goose-step  creditably.  I  want  the  fighting  to  go 
on  though.  I  can't  stand  it,  lying  still.  I  want  to  fight 
the  thing  through,  and  get  out  of  a  mortifying  position. 
After  sixteen  months  of  service  I  trudge  around  with  a 
corporal's  guard,  while  old  friends  who  have  been  wait- 
ing favorable  opportunities  at  home  until  now,  prancing 
by  me  in  new  regimentals  at  the  heads  of  Regiments, 
nod  to  me  familiarly  perhaps,  or  probably  pass  me  un- 
noticed. There  are  no  vacancies  at  present  in  the  Field 
of  the  79th  Regiment,  and  yet  any  day  there  may  be.  I 
am  the  next  eligible  candidate  at  present  in  the  Regiment 
for  promotion,  and  might  get  the  next  vacancy  if  friends 
at  home  were  only  alive  to  the  necessity  of  vouching  for 
me  in  some  way,  to  those  who  have  the  power  to  dispense 
Commissions.  Here  I  see  miners,  tailors,  carpenters  and 
all  sorts  of  petty  tradesmen,  who  find  no  difficulty  in 
getting  friends  to  mention  their  names,  and  because  sue- 


WAR    LKTThKS  217 

cessful,  boast  much  of  their  political  influence,  and  yet  I, 
a  gentleman  with  plenty  of  friends,  cannot  boast  of  enough 
to  secure  me  my  just  dues  in  the  regular  order  of  seniority. 
I  do  not  want  to  be  querulous.  I  do  want  LJnde  Phelps 
though,  if  he  knows  (Jov.  Morgan,  to  remind  him  occa- 
sionally that  he  has  a  nephew  whom  Gov.  Morgan  might 
remember,  &c.  Well,  my  dear  Horace,  I  will  say  no 
more.  Verb  urn  sat  sapienti.  I  hope  one  of  these  days 
to  get  home  with  my  duty  done,  and  then  I  can  laugh 
at  my  present  comical  situation.  Do  write  me  a  long 
letter.  I  have  heard  nothing  from  you  for  some  months, 
though  this  is  my  third  letter.  I  suppose  either  yours  or 
mine  have  been  lost.  Love  to  Cousin  Lou,  Hattie,  your 
mother  and  the  good  people  on  the  Hill. 

AfFec'y.  but  sadly, 

Will. 
ygtb  Regt.  1st  Brig.  1st  Div.  qtb  Army  Corps,  Washington. 

(To  be  forwarded) 

Antietam  Iron  Works, 

79th  Regiment, 
Sept.  30th.   1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  send  you  herewith  the  copy  sent  me  to-night  of  Special 
Order  No.  8  from  the  Headquarters  of  the  9th  Army 
Corps.  I  trust  it  will  afford  you  a  crumb  of  comfort. 
Keep  it,  if  it  will  be  of  any  use  in  getting  me  recog- 
nized in  Connecticut.  Having  always  boasted  of  hailing 
from  that  State,  I  am  considered  as  a  sort  of  alien  in  a 
New- York  Regiment.  But  Connecticut  doesn't  appear 
to  trouble  herself  much  about  me,  so  I  think  it  would  be 
better  if  you  should  forward  the  document  to  Horace,  to 
whom   I   have  confided  the   delicate  task  of  insinuating 


2iS  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

to  my  New- York  friends  that  I  am  really  living  still.     It 
might  be  of  some  assistance  to  him. 

Have  nothing  further  to  add,  except  that  I  don't 
fancy  my  old  crony  Hattie's  marrying  a  widower  with 
three  children.     Love  to  all. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

"Rebellion  Record,"   Vol.   V,  p.  465  of  Documents. 

Headquarters  Ninth  Army  Corps, 

Mouth  of  Antietam  Creek,  Md.,  Sept.  28,  1862. 
Special  Order  No.  8. 

The  following  officers  and  enlisted  men  of  this  command  have 
been  honorably  mentioned  in  the  official  reports  of  the  engagements  of 
the  17th  inst.,  and  their  names  are  hereby  published,  as  a  testimony  to 
their  gallant  and  meritorious  conduct  in  the  field,  and  for  efficiency 
in  their  departments: 

First  Division. 

.  .  .  Colonels  B.  C.  Christ  and  Thomas  Welsh,  for  the  able  man- 
ner in  which  they  handled  their  brigades;  Capt.  Wm.  T.  Lusk,  Acting 
Assistant  Adjutant-General  of  Col.  Christ's  brigade.  .  .  . 

J.  D.  Cox, 

Brigadier-General  Commanding. 

Norwich,  Oct.  6th,  1862. 

My  own  dear  Son: 

I  certainly  did  not  intend  writing  you  to-day,  and  have 
but  little  time,  yet  I  must  acknowledge  the  reception  of 
Special  Order  No.  8  from  the  Headquarters  of  the  9th 
Army  Corps,  and  the  pleasure  it  affords  me.  Thomas 
Perkins  obtained  a  letter  from  the  Gov.  of  Conn,  to  the 
Gov.  of  New- York.  Walter  has  written  you  the  favorable 
result  of  his  application  so  far,  but  of  Gov.  BV  letter  I 
wish  to  make  special  mention.  It  was  in  the  highest  de- 
gree complimentary  to  you,  and  stated  in  conclusion  that 

1  Buckingham. 


WAR   LETTERS  219 

had  you  served  in  a  Conn.  Reg't  he  should  have  promote  1 
you  long  since.  In  fact  my  son,  even  I  felr  he  had  written 
as  handsome  a  letter  recommending  your  promotion  as  I 
could  desire.  So  N.  Y.  I  think  is  fairly  the  State  of  yout 
adoption,  and  your  claims  rest  upon  her,  as  you  hi 
served  with  her  sons.  Should  E.  resign,  Gov.  M.1  has 
promised  upon  proof  of  your  being  first  Captain,  that  you 
shall  receive  the  commission.  However,  it  is  best  that 
you  should  keep  your  friends  advised,  and  we  will  do 
what  we  can.  I  have  so  much  to  say,  I  wish  I  could  talk 
to  you.  Good-bye,  God  will  bless  you,  trust  Him  for 
all   things. 

Very  lovingly, 

Mother. 

Hannah  has  a  son  three  days  old.  I  have  sent  Special 
Order  No.  8  to  your  Uncle  Phelps  and  Walter  who  will 
use  it  as  they  like. 

(W.  W.   Phelps  to  E.  F.  Lusk) 

New- York,  Oct.  8th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mrs.  Lusk: 

I  inclose  Willie's  letter,  in  hopes  that  it  has  not  yet 
been  too  long  at  hand  to  be  the  latest  from  his  Head- 
quarters. 

I  have  pleasure  in  announcing  the  result  of  an  applica- 
tion at  Albany,  which  Mr.  Phelps  wrote  you  about. 

I  saw  the  Gov. 

"If  the  position  were  vacant  I  should  give  it  to  you 
now.  All  I  can  say  under  the  circumstances  is  this,  if 
the  vacancy  occurs,  and  the  facts  are  as  stated  about  your 
friend,  he  shall  have  it.     I  will  bear  it  in  mind." 

1  Morgan. 


220  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  wrote  Will  immediately  that  what  he  had  to  do  was 
to  get  Elliott  to  resign,  and  proof  that  he  was  the  Senior 
Captain,  when  he  could  mount  his  gold  leaf  as  Major. 

You  can  imagine  how  difficult  it  is  to  obtain  a  Com- 
mission out  of  regular  order,  from  the  fact  that  the  Gov. 
has  been  trying  for  a  month  to  get  a  simple  Lieutenancy 
for  a  ward  of  his. 

Very  truly, 

W.  W.  Phelps. 


79th  Regiment,  Camp  Israel, 

Pleasant  Valley, 

Oct.  19th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

It  is  some  little  time  since  I  have  had  an  opportunity 
to  write  you,  for  a  few  days  ago  we  were  suddenly  sent  to 
Frederick  for  the  protection  of  that  place,  apprehensive 
of  an  attack  from  Stuart's  troopers.  While  there,  we 
had  no  conveniences  for  inditing  epistles,  little  to  eat, 
and  plenty  of  exposure.  When  I  left  for  Frederick,  I 
was  quite  ill  with  camp  dysentery,  but  it  left  me  very 
soon,  although  I  have  no  doubt,  could  you  have  seen 
me  lying  out  of  doors  without  shelter  in  the  cold  night 
air,  you  would  have  predicted  certain  death  to  me.  I 
find  men  don't  die  easy,  unless  they  are  shot.  Atmos- 
pheric exposure  doesn't  kill.  Men  grow  and  thrive  with 
hardship. 

Well,  so  I  am  another  Uncle,  bless  my  heart!  As  well 
as  the  little  heart  of  the  new  youngster  who  wouldn't 
be  a  girl  for  any  consideration!  The  female  sex  don't 
seem  to  smile  upon  me,  but  then  boys  are  such  "rare 
birds,"    as   Dr.  Tyng   said  of   Billy  Willson's    Zouaves. 


WAR   LET1  ERS  221 

There's  some  consolation  in  that.  I  think  I  shall  accept 
the  Uncleship  of  Ellen's  baby,  so  th;it  win  n  I  get  old 
and  a  busybody,  I  can  make  a  match  between  this  last 

nephew  of  mine  and  little  Miss  Dodge.  Hey!  Won't 
it  be  fun!  Give  the  small  boy  a  good  kissing,  tell  him 
I  am  going  to  arrange  all  bis  love  matters  for  him  when 

he  gets  old  enough,  and  most  charming  of  all,  will  buy 
him  a  new  drum  as  soon  as  he  can  handle  tin  drumsti 
For  the  rest  I  do  not  doubt  but  that  he  is  a  phenomenon 
of  a  beautiful  mottled  cherry  color,  in  fact  beyond  com- 
parison, unequalled  by  any  other  baby  of  his  age  living. 
Give  my  congratulations  to  Hunt  and  Mary,  and  tell 
them,  like  a  good  brother  I  rejoice  with  them,  and  only 
wish  I  could  be  present  with  them  for  a  few  days  to  share 
their  joy. 

It  is  raining  hard  to-night  and  we  think  that  cold  weather 
will  follow.  As  for  promotion,  I  do  not  bother  my  head 
about  that.  I  have  enough  to  disgust  me  in  a  thousand 
ways  to  make  me  sick  of  soldiering.  However,  dutv  is 
duty,  so  I  put  my  nose  to  the  grindstone  and  say,  "Grind 
away."  .  .  .  My  own  tent — we  are  five  of  us  together — has 
a  pretty  good  set  of  fellows.  The  only  trouble  is,  with  the 
exception  of  my  old  first  Lieutenant  (appointed  Capt.  to- 
day), they  sadly  lack  interest  in  the  cause  they  are  engaged 
upon.  These  new  Regiments  have  destroyed  the  enthu- 
siasm of  the  old.  The  newly  enlisted  men  have  already  in 
advance,  in  the  way  of  bounties,  received  more  monev  than 
old  soldiers  can  hope  to  earn  in  the  entire  war.  The  old 
officers  who  have  been  in  many  battles  and  by  hard  ser- 
vice have  learned  their  duty,  are  obliged  to  receive  instruc- 
tions when  on  picket  or  other  extra  duty,  from  some 
Major  just  entering  on  military  life,  who  very  likely  pegged 
shoes  for  them,  without  an  inspiration  for  military  glory, 


222  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

a  year  ago.  These  things  are  hard  to  gulp  down,  and 
unless  the  sense  of  duty  is  very  strong  the  murmurings 
are  loud  indeed. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

"  Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,"  p.  129. 

"The  movements  of  the  two  armies  in  the  seven  weeks  which  fol- 
lowed the  battle  of  the  Antietam,  do  not  require  minute  description. 
Both  armies  needed  rest.  .  .  .  McClellan  devoted  his  attention  to  guard- 
ing the  line  of  the  Potomac,  and  to  the  equipment  and  reorganization 
of  his  command.  .  .  .  He  wanted  horses,  shoes,  clothing,  and  blankets, 
and  he  wanted  all  the  'old  troops  that  could  possibly  be  dispensed  with 
around  Washington  and  other  places,'  and  he  repeated  his  assertion 
that  in  the  recent  battles  the  enemy  was  greatly  superior  in  number." 

Page  130.  "By  the  6th  of  October  the  President  had  become  im- 
patient, so  much  so  that  Halleck,  the  General-in-Chief,  was  instructed 
to  telegraph  McClellan  as  follows:  'The  President  directs  that  you  cross 
the  Potomac  and  give  battle  to  the  enemy  or  drive  him  south.'  This, 
however,  did  not  move  McClellan,  and  on  the  10th  of  October  Stuart 
crossed  the  Potomac,  above  Williamsport,  with  orders  to  'endeavor  to 
ascertain  the  position  and  designs  of  the  enemy.'  He  penetrated  as  far 
as  Chambersburg  which  he  occupied  for  a  time,  destroyed  public  prop- 
erty, made  the  entire  circuit  of  the  Federal  Army,  and  recrossed  the 
Potomac,  near  the  mouth  of  the  Monocacy,  without  any  material  loss. 
Thus  for  the  second  time  a  force  of  Confederate  cavalry  rode  all  around 
McClellan's  army.  The  latter  exploit  was  the  more  noteworthy,  and 
the  more  discreditable  to  McClellan,  because  the  raid  was  made  on 
Union  territory." 

Page  131.  "There  was  undoubtedly  grea-t  delay  in  the  arrival  of 
supplies.  ...  At  last,  however,  near  the  end  of  October,  affairs  were  in 
such  condition  that  McClellan  began  to  put  his  troops  in  motion." 

79th  Regiment,  Oct.  28th,  1862. 

Camp  near  Southville,  Va. 
My  dear  Mother: 

We  are  once  more  on  the  march  and  have  recrossed 
into  Virginia.  Let  us  pray  for  success  —  and  hope.  I  am 
in  first  rate  health  and  spirits.  It  seems  as  though  ex- 
posure was  a  good  thing  for  a  soldier.  All  the  time  I 
lay  in  camp  I  did  not  feel  well.     The  day  we  marched  it 


WAR   LETTERS  223 

rained  hard,  and  the  air  was  excessively  cold  at  night. 
I  was  appointed  Division  Field  Officer  for  the  day,  and 

had  to  spend  hours  in  a  cold  dark  rainy  nighl  wandering 
through  marshes  and  wet  fields  examining  pickel  posts. 
Well,  instead  of  killing  me,  as  my  good  mother  would 
have  supposed,  I  lost  all  my  ill-feelings,  and,  after  a 
night's  sleep,  am  in  better  condition  than  I  have  heen  in 
for  weeks.  I  regret  only  one  thing  — -that  we  can  no 
longer  receive  our  mails  regularly.  In  our  last  camp 
things  were  so  arranged  that  we  received  the  mail  daily, 
which  was  very  pleasant. 

I  had  a  letter  from  Coz.  Lou  a  day  or  two  ago,  and 
enjoyed  it  greatly.  It  seems  to  me  that  Lilly  has  for- 
gotten her  offer  to  become  my  correspondent,  that  is  to 
say,  to  do  all  the  corresponding  herself.  I  am  sure  I 
grasped  her  offer  most  warmly.  I  received  a  kind  and 
friendly  letter  from  Col.  Farnsworth  some  days  since, 
which  I  forwarded  to  Walter.  The  Colonel  promised 
me  all  the  influence  he  possessed  for  my  advancement. 
A  call  has  been  lately  made  for  men  of  the  Volunteer 
Army  to  enlist  in  the  Regulars.  It  speaks  well  for  the 
discipline  of  the  Highlanders,  that,  while  from  other 
Regiments  from  75  to  100  men  eagerly  sought  the  oppor- 
tunity to  enter  a  new  service,  hardly  a  dozen  of  our  men 
have  been  found  ready  to  change  their  present  condition. 
In  my  own  company  not  one  has  volunteered. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

If  I  get  disabled,  I  think  I  shall  keep  a  candy  store  — 
with  so  many  nephews  I  would  be  so  popular.  Tell  Mrs. 
Dodge  that,  for  the  benefit  of  her  little  girl,  I  shall  keep 
an  assortment  of  the  biggest  goggle-eyed  wax  dolls. 

W.  T.  L. 


224  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Near  Rectorville,  Va. 

November,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  received  your  half  reproachful  letter  last  night  just 
after  I  had  gone  to  bed,  and  thought  that  perhaps  I  might 
have  made  a  little  too  much  of  the  difficulties  of  writing 
without  pens,  ink,  stand,  and  oftentimes  in  the  cold  with 
numb  fingers  after  a  day's  march.  These  things  make 
me  disinclined  to  write  letters,  yet  I  should  know  by  the 
pleasure  the  receipt  of  your  missives  affords  me,  that  to 
occasion  like  pleasure  in  return  should  be  sufficient  incen- 
tive to  exertion.  I  am  commencing  well  to-night  with  a 
small  stub  of  a  pencil,  sitting  in  McDonald's  tent.  But 
remember  do,  dear  mother,  when  at  times  I  prove  neglect- 
ful, that  all  is  necessarily  well;  that  "no  news  is  good 
news." 

I  hardly  can  give  you  any  hint  of  the  intentions  of  the 
Army.  We  do  not  see  the  papers  often  enough  to  study 
the  general  movement  of  our  troops,  and  cannot  even 
make  conjectures.  We  all  hope  though  that  we  are 
engaged  on  some  earnest  and  important  undertaking. 
We  feel  that  it  is  vital  to  act,  and  wish  to  act  successfully. 
Burnside  and  McClellan  are  near  us,  and  we  have  faith 
in  them.  I  judge  from  some  remark  I  read  in  the  papers, 
that  Connecticut  has  given  her  vote  to  the  Democracy 
in  the  late  elections.  A  test-vote  was  taken  on  election 
day  in  our  Regiment  to  try  the  relative  strengths  of 
Seymour  and  Wadsworth.  168  votes  were  polled,  of 
which  Wadsworth  received  only  52.  This  was  not  so 
much  because  Seymour  or  his  principles  were  popular,  as 
for  the  reason  that  Wadsworth,  long  before  his  nomination 
for  Governor  of  New- York,  was  generally  known  to  the 


WAR  LETTERS  225 

army  as  rather  the  leader  oi  the  clique  so  obnoxious  to 
the  soldier,  which  was  loud  and  virulent   in  its  abu 
McClcllan.     The   feeling  was  rather    McClellan   versus 
Fremont',  than  Seymour  versus  Wadsworth. 

While  I  think  of  it,  I  will  deny  the  Story  that  Rockwell 
did  not  command  his  battery  in  the  fames  Island  battle. 
He  did  so,  and  I  do  not  think  Porter  meant  to  deny  it. 
Porter  probahly  said  that  he  (Porter)  commanded  Ro<  k- 
well's  Battery  the  most  of  the  time  they  were  on  James 
Island,  without  specifying  anything  regarding  the  fight. 
You  know  Rockwell  was  sick  a  good  deal  of  the  time, 
and  Porter,  as  next  in  rank,  did  command  in  many  of 
the  almost  daily  skirmishes.  Porter  did  first-rate  service, 
and  is  too  good  a  man  I  think,  to  injure  his  own  repu- 
tation by  decrying  another.  On  the  day  of  the  battle 
Rockwell  was  well  enough  to  command  in  person,  and  to 
the  entire  satisfaction  of  General  Stevens. 

I  had  a  letter  from  Horace  yesterday,  and  should  judge 
he  was  blue.  The  poor  fellow  has  had  discouragements 
enough.  He  writes  that  if  the  draft  falls  upon  him,  he 
shall  enter  the  ranks  and  come  out  to  the  war.  This  is 
wrong.  He  should  secure  a  Commission,  or  stay  at  home. 
With  my  present  experience,  I  would  not  have  leaped 
blindly  as  I  did  at  the  commencement  of  the  war.  I 
have  had  a  hard  struggle  with  pride  and  duty  to  make 
me  persist,  but  a  little  of  the  caution  displayed  by  most 
of  my  friends,  would  have  saved  me  many  difficulties. 
If  my  friends  have  generally  been  more  successful  than 
I,  I  can  at  least  feel  consoled  by  the  thought  that  what  I 
have  gained  has  been  won  by  my  own  exertion.  There, 
that  is  pretty  egotism!  Little  boy  blue,  come  blow  vour 
horn ! 

I  wish  I  had  seen  Charley  Johnson  when  in  my  neigh- 


226  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

borhood.  I  suppose  I  was  off  to  Frederick.  Charley 
must  have  been  journeying  to  the  moon,  I  guess,  when 
he  so  narrowly  escaped  Stuart's  Cavalry. 

Believe  me, 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

Norwich,  Conn. 
November  17th,   1862. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  think  I  will  commence  the  week  by  writing  a  letter 
to  you  who  in  these  times  of  trouble  occupy  so  large  a 
share  of  my  thoughts.  Sam  Elliott  was  here  on  Saturday, 
dined  with  us  and  stayed  some  hours.  His  sad  condition 
makes  me  feel  very  melancholy.  Poor  fellow!  How  he 
has  suffered.  I  sometimes  wish  you  were  all  withdrawn 
from  the  Army.  Oh!  my  poor,  poor  country!  It  is  so 
grievous  to  see  our  sons  and  friends  maimed,  sick,  or 
to  know  that  they  are  dead.  He  (Elliott)  tells  me  you 
are  well,  and  seem  strong.  God  has  indeed  been  merci- 
ful to  spare  your  life  and  strength  amid  such  great  dangers 
as  you  have  passed  through  during  the  last  eighteen 
months.  Elliott  talks  of  returning  to  his  duties  this 
week.  He  certainly  ought  not,  for  he  is  weak,  sick,  and 
unfit  for  exertion;  besides  that,  he  requires  the  most 
nourishing  diet.  He  told  me  that  he  found  you  at  break- 
fast on  mouldy  bread  and  sloppy  coffee,  while  we  who 
are  at  home  doing  nothing,  are  fattening  on  luxuries. 

Oh!  my  dear,  dear  son,  I  feel  so  anxious  about  the  effect 
of  this  coming  cold  winter,  and  I  cannot  help  a  feeling  of 
bitterness  that  you  are  not  provided  with  proper  food. 
If  you  should  have  an  attack  of  rheumatism,  do  get  per- 
mission to  return  to  be  taken  care  of  properly.     I  hear 


WAR    LETTERS  227 

nothing  more  of  your  prospects  in  New-York,  bul  am 
sure  your  friends  will  not  relax  their  exertions.  We  are 
all  well  here,  and  the  Grand s  are  doing  finely,  especially 
the  lasr.  A  week  from  Thursday  is  our  'I  hanksgiving 
Day  in  Conn.,  so  we  arc  expecting  Thomas  and  Lillie  to 
pass  the  day,  after  which  I  shall  return  with  them  to  New- 
York  for  the  winter.  Elliott  told  me  when  he  reached 
New- York,  being  cold,  he  wrapped  around  him  the  blanket 
Hunt  gave  him,  and  as  he  staggered  from  weakness,  a 
police  officer  arrested  him  for  drunkenness,  hut  released 
him  immediately  on  discovering  that  he  was  ill,  What 
is  the  general  feeling  in  the  Army  regarding  the  removal 
of  McClellan,  as  far  as  you  can  judge  ?  Uncle  John  is 
violently  opposed  to  him,  and  Hunt,  I  think,  partakes  of 
his  feelings.  Whether  justly,  or  unjustly,  there  is  certainly 
a  strong  party  against  him.  The  Post  and  Tribune 
oppose  him,  the  World  and  Express  uphold  him,  while 
the  Herald  humbly  submits  its  judgment  to  the  will  of  the 
President. 

Mary  Wells  and  her  husband  have  returned  from 
Europe,  and  are  expected  here  this  week.  Hannah  has 
nearly,  or  quite  recovered  her  strength.  I  have  not  much 
news  to  tell  you.  The  Twenty-sixth  Regt.  left  last  Thurs- 
day, to  the  relief  of  some  of  our  citizens.  They  were 
in  town  at  all  hours,  and  a  hundred  or  more  at  once 
would  run  past  the  guard  and  rush  to  their  tents  when 
they  pleased.  The  Lt.-Col.  when  issuing  his  orders,  would 
address  them  thus:  "Gentlemen,  please  to  stand  back," 
or,  "Gentlemen,  please  to  stop,"  when  he  wished  them 
to  halt.  This  is  the  gossip.  Very  few  of  them  were 
known  in  town,  and  consequently  less  interest  was  felt 
for  them  than  for  the  Eighteenth  and  Twentv-First. 
Edward    Ells,    and    young    Meech   who    married    Louisa 


228  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Bond  went  with  them.  Gen.  Tyler  and  Ned,  Dr.  Osgood 
saw  last  week  in  Chicago.  He  reports  that  they  are 
having  a  rather  forlorn  time.  It  is  some  time  since  their 
paroled  prisoners  have  seen  the  paymaster.  I  hear  you 
have  been  inconvenienced  by  the  same  cause.  The  papers 
state  that  all  are  now  being  paid,  so  I  hope  you  too  will 
receive  your  own.  Uncle  Thomas  heard  somewhere,  that 
the  "De  Soto"  was  off  New  Orleans  on  her  way  home 
for  repairs.     If  this  is  true,  Charles  may  soon  be  home. 

Good-bye,  my  own  dear  son,  may  the  Almighty  God 
be  ever  your  defence  and  shield. 

Always  very  lovingly, 

Mother. 

Elliott  said,  if  the  Medical  Examiner  forbids  his  return 
this  week,  he  should  come  and  see  me  again.  His  brother 
William  is  in  Washington.     His  arm  is  still  useless. 

McClellan  succeeded  by  Burnside 

" Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,"  p.  132. 

"Late  on  the  night  of  the  7th  of  November  McClellan  received  an 
order  relieving  him  from  the  command  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac, 
and  directing  him  to  turn  it  over  to  Gen.  Burnside.  .  .  .  To  relieve 
McClellan  of  his  command  so  soon  after  he  had  forced  Lee  out  of  Mary- 
land, was  hard  measure.  He  had  succeeded  to  the  command  when  Pope 
had  been  very  badly  beaten,  and  when  the  sound  of  the  enemy's 
guns  had  been  plainly  audible  at  Washington.  He  had  rapidly  raised 
the  troops  from  a  condition  of  much  discouragement  and  demoraliza- 
tion, and   made  of  them  a  compact  and  efficient  force."  .  .  . 

Page  133.  "His  interminable  and  inexcusable  delays  upon  the 
Peninsula  afforded  just  ground  for  dissatisfaction,  and  they  seemed,  to 
say  no  more,  to  be  followed  by  similar  delays  upon  the  Potomac.  .  .  . 
So  the  'young  Napoleon,'  the  popular  idol  of  1861,  was  removed  from 
the  command  of  the  army  for  which  he  had  done  so  much,  and  while 
it  seems  that  hard  measure  was  meted  to  him,  there  is  more  ground  for 
sympathy  than  there  is  for  wonder." 

Page  134.  "It  is  little  to  say  that  his  character  was  reputable,  but 
it  is  true.  He  was  a  courteous  gentleman.  Not  a  word  was  ever  said 
against  his  way  of  life  nor  his  personal  integrity.     No  orgies  disgraced 


WAR   LETTERS 

headquarters  while  h<-  was  in  command,     His  capacity  and 
an  organizer  are  universally  recognized.     II'  ellem  sti 

and  in  many  respects  an  excellent  Boldier.     He  did  not  usi    hi 
troops  with  sufficient  promptness,  thoroughness  and  vigor,  to  achieve 
great  and  decisive  results,  but  he  was  oftenei  successful  than  unsuccess 
ful  with  them,  and   he  so  conducted  affairs  thai   they  nevei   suffered 

heavily  without  inflicting  heavy  loss  upon  their  adv<  rsarit  i I  h<  re 

are  strong  grounds  for  believing  that  he  was  the  lust  commandet  the 
Army  of  the  Potomac  evet  had.  No  one  would  think  for  a  moment  <>\ 
comparing  Pope  01  Burnside  or  Hooker  with  him.  .  .  .  While  thi  I 
federacy  was  young  and  lush  and  rich,  and  its  armies  were  numerous, 
McClellan  fought  a  good,  wary,  damaging,  respectable  fight 
He  was  not  so  quick  in  learning  to  attack  as  Jot:  Jolinston  and  Lee  and 
Jackson  were,  but  South  Mountain  and  the  Antietam  showed  that  In- 
had  learned  the  lesson,  and  witli  longer  possession  of  command,  greater 
things  might  fairly  have  been  expected  of  him.  ...  A  growing  famil- 
iarity with  his  history  as  a  soldier,  increases  the  disposition  to  regard  him 
with  respect  and  gratitude,  and  to  believe,  while  recognizing  tin  limita- 
tions of  his  nature,  that  his  failure  to  accomplish  more  was  partly  his 
misfortune  and  not  altogether  his  fault." 


Near  Fredericksburg, 

Nov.  19th,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

Here  we  are  at  last  on  familiar  ground,  lying  in  camp 
at  Falmouth,  opposite  to  Fredericksburg.  I  have  been 
unable  while  on  the  march  for  the  few  days  past,  to  write 
you,  but  am  doing  my  best  with  a  pencil  to-night,  as  one 
of  our  Captains  returns  home  to-morrow,  and  will  take 
such  letters  as  may  be  given  him.  It  was  my  turn  to  go 
home  this  time,  but  my  claim  was  disregarded.  You 
know  Lt.-Col.  Morrison  has  command  of  the  Regiment 
in  Col.  Farnsworth's  absence,  and  Morrison  never  omits 
any  opportunity  to  subject  me  to  petty  annoyances.  I 
am  an  American  in  a  Scotch  Regiment,  and  in  truth  not 
wanted.  Yet  I  cannot  resign.  The  law  does  not  allow 
that,  so  I  have  to  bear  a  great  deal  of  meanness.  Stevens 
in  his  lifetime  knowing  how  things  stood,  kept  in  check 


230  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

the  Scotch  feeling  against  interlopers  like  Elliott  and 
myself.  ...  I  do  not  exaggerate  these  things.  I  used  to 
feel  the  same  way  in  old  times,  but  had  been  so  long 
separated  from  the  regiment  as  almost  to  forget  them. 
I  have  borne  them  of  late  without  complaint,  hoping 
the  efforts  of  my  friends  might  work  my  release.  In  the 
Regiments  of  the  old  Division  I  think  no  officer  had  so 
many  strong  friends  as  I.  In  my  own  Regiment  I  may 
say  that  I  am  friendless.  (I  except  McDonald).  In 
the  Division  I  had  a  reputation.  In  my  Regiment  I 
have  none.  After  eighteen  months  of  service  I  am  forced 
to  bear  the  insults  of  a  man  who  is  continually  telling  of 
the  sacrifices  he  has  made  for  his  country,  because  he 
abandoned  on  leaving  for  the  war,  a  small  shop  where 
he  made  a  living  by  polishing  brasses  for  andirons. 

Forgive  me,  my  dear  mother,  for  complaining.  It 
does  me  good  sometimes,  for  then  after  speaking  freely, 
I  always  determine  afresh  that  if  these  things  must  be,  I 
will  nevertheless  do  my  duty,  and  in  so  doing  maintain 
my  self-respect.     Love  to  all,  dear  mother.     Good-bye. 

Very  affec'y-> 
William  T.  Lusk. 

Near  Falmouth,  Nov.  22nd,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

We  are  still  overlooking  the  city  of  Fredericksburg, 
which  the  enemy  has  not  evacuated,  disregarding  our 
warnings.  I  suppose  the  shelling  of  the  city  will  com- 
mence to-morrow,  unless  regard  be  shown  by  our  Com- 
manders for  the  Sabbath  day.  I  must  say  the  attack  on 
Fredericksburg  is  a  thing  I  greatly  dread.  The  field  of 
battle  with  all  its  horrors  is  redeemed  somewhat  by  the 


WAR  LETTERS  231 

thought  that  the  dead  on  both  sides  have  fallen  in  a  cause 
sacred  in  their  own  eyes  al  least,  and  this  redeems  them, 
but  wanton  destruction  of  property  and  all  the  probable 
results  of  a  successful  siege  develop  only  tin  most  devilish 
propensities  of  humanity.    To  see  women  and  children, 

old  men,  the  weak  and  the  feeble  insulted  and  injured, 
makes  one  hate  war  and  distrust  one's  cause,  and  yet 
with  the  lax  discipline  maintained  in  our  armies,  we  have 
too  frequent  examples  of  such  outrage,  the  efforts  of 
officers  to  check  them  being  completely  neutralized  by 
the  accursed  conduct  of  the  Press  with  its  clamor  for  a 
vigorous  prosecution  of  the  war.  In  this  way  Pope  pre- 
pared his  troops  for  defeat.  Burnside  is  a  nobler  nature, 
and  will  do  what  he  can  to  prevent  such  stains  on  our 
honor,  but  he  even  cannot  wholly  arrest  the  effect  of 
the  savage  appeals  of  our  journals  at  home.  You  ask 
me  what  I  think  of  McClellan  ?  I  cannot  answer  for 
myself,  I  have  been  too  little  under  his  command,  but  by 
his  old  soldiers  —  by  those  in  whose  judgment  I  place 
confidence,  he  is  trusted  as  the  ablest  General  in  our  army. 
Granting  even  that  he  is  slow,  they  believe  he  had  the 
power  to  have  brought  the  war  successfully  to  a  close, 
had  he  been  allowed  to  execute  his  plans  without  the 
assistance  of  our  Executive's  wisdom.  I  fear  we  have  no 
great  soldiers  in  our  army.  Probably. we  had  a  good  medi- 
ocre one  in  McClellan.  It  is  doubtful  whether  we  have 
that  now.  Poor  old  .  .  .  Abe  has  put  down  his  big  clumsy 
foot  — and  God  help  us!  We  don't  look  for  assistance 
either  to  old  Abe  or  the  collective  wisdom  of  his  advisers. 
We  hardly  look  to  the  people  of  the  North  wearied  with 
repeated  disappointment.  In  our  wretched  army  system 
we  have  not  much  more  to  hope.  What  then  r  We 
must  trust  in  God,  and  conquer.     This  alone  can  help 


232  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

us  now.  To  this  is  our  pride  humbled.  In  hoc  signo 
vinces.  I  do  not  despair,  but  hope  —  and  while  I  live, 
will  never  despair  —  but  my  hopes  will  rise,  when  a  sincere 
effort  shall  be  made  to  check  the  license  and  marauding 
propensities  of  our  troops,  when  thieves  and  robbers  shall 
receive  speedy  and  terrible  justice,  when,  in  a  word,  we 
shall  deserve  to  conquer.  A  righteous  indignation  toward 
the  authors  of  the  rebellion  may  be  a  good  thing,  but  it 
is  very  likely  to  be  confounded  with  a  desire  to  pamper 
one's  belly  at  the  expense  of  the  helpless.  It  may  be  a 
good  thing  to  use  severe  measures  to  bring  deluded  men 
to  a  sense  of  their  errors.  Still  I  think,  were  low  ignorant 
ruffians  to  visit  my  home  while  I  was  away  fighting,  burn 
my  house,  lay  waste  my  property,  insult  mother  and  sisters, 
beggar  the  little  children  I  might  love,  taunt  the  gray 
hairs  I  might  respect,  leave  starvation  in  the  place  of 
plenty,  I  should  feel  singularly  strengthened  in  my  early 
delusion.     Yet    this    is    a    truthful   picture   of  what   the 

and  its  school  mean   by  a  vigorous  prosecution  of 

the  war.  Cromwell's  troops  were  terrible  soldiers  —  a 
scourge  to  the  enemy  —  and  they  conquered  because 
they  were  forbidden  to  stain  their  cause  with  robbery 
and  wrong.  I  heard  two  soldiers  disputing  to-day,  one 
of  them  belonged  to  the  18th  Ind.  Vols.,  the  other  to  the 
8th  Ohio  Vols.  They  were  contending  as  to  which  Regi- 
ment should  be  entitled  to  the  credit  of  having  collected 
and  sent  home  the  greatest  amount  of  plunder.  I  heard 
a  Michigan  soldier  boasting  that  his  Regiment  had  foisted 
thousands  of  dollars  worth  of  counterfeit  money  on  the 
people  of  Virginia  in  exchange  for  little  luxuries.  A 
poor  woman  lived  near  us.  A  party  of  cowards  entered 
her  house  to  search  for  booty.  She  implored  them  to 
leave  the  little  that  she  had  for  her  children's  sake.     The 


WAR    I-l.  II  I  I'  •  233 

brutes  thrust  her  put  of  the  door,  until  they  had  ran- 
sacked the  poor  dwelling,  and  then  left  a  weak  woman 
and  feeble  little  children  to  go  supperless  to  bed.  Hie 
great,  hulking,  cowardly  brutes!  But  I  have  no  wish  to 
point  the  finger  further  at  our  disgrace.  I  have  said  I 
do  not  despair,  but  at  sight  of  such  things  I  cannot  but 
despond. 

Give  my  best  love  to  all  my  dear  friends  —  God  bless 
them  and  protect  them. 

Very  afFec'y., 

Will. 

Near  Falmouth, 

Nov.  26th,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  have  selected  the  most  inviting  of  the  paper  Nellie 
sent  me  to  write  you  to-day  —  such  nice  paper  I  thought 
it  would  be  to  write  a  love-letter  on,  to  some  dainty  little 
lady.  I  have  lighted  a  real  good  cigar,  and  fancy  I  might 
be  delightfully  sentimental,  but  nearly  five  years  absence 
from  home  has  left  me,  alas!  with  no  dainty  little  lady 
acquaintances,  time  having  changed  them  into  inter- 
esting matrons.  So  as  my  own  mother  is  the  most 
interesting  matron  of  my  acquaintance,  I  find  myself 
writing   to   her. 

To-morrow  will  be  Thanksgiving  Day.  The  manner 
in  which  it  is  supposed  to  be  observed  in  camp  you  will 
find  interestingly  pictured  in  last  week's  "Frank  Leslie." 
I  suppose  we  will  dine  in  reality  to-morrow  on  coffee  and 
crackers  and  fried  beefsteak.  Still  these  things  satisfy 
the  appetite,  and  are  even  capable  of  producing  dyspepsia, 
notwithstanding  the  popular  notion  that  such  an  evil  is 


234  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

confined  to  the  pampered  denizens  of  cities.  You  must 
take  Sam  Elliott's  descriptions  of  camp-life  cum  grano 
salts,  remembering  what  wonderful  descriptive  powers  he 
possesses.  I  do  not  doubt  he  pictures  the  horrors  so 
vividly  that  the  hearers  suffer  far  more  from  listening  to 
his  accounts,  than  the  actual  victims  do  from  experiencing 
the  reality. 

You  will  see  Wm.  Elliott  I  suppose.  Tell  him  then 
that  I  must  have  written  authority  from  him  to  collect 
the  money  for  his  lost  horse.  I  wish  to  serve  him,  but 
need  the  writing  to  enable  me  to  act.  My  special  friend, 
Lt.-Col.  Morrison,  played  me  another  amiable  trick  to- 
night, having  appointed  More  Major  of  the  Regiment, 
subject  to  the  approval  of  the  Governor  of  New- York. 
This  was  in  the  first  place  unnecessary,  as  More  has  not 
yet  reported  for  duty.  Then  it  was  a  thing  he  had  no 
special  power  to  do,  Col.  Farnsworth  (so  he  writes  me) 
having  already  recommended  me  to  the  Gov.  for  the 
position.  But  it  was  a  cunning  trick,  as,  should  my 
appointment  occur  in  the  face  of  his  own  published  to 
the  Regiment,  endless  troubles  could  easily  be  made 
to  result.  Yet  Morrison  to  my  face  is  the  sweetest, 
most  amiable  among  the  artificers  of  brasses  for  andirons. 

Capt.  who  so  flatteringly  presented    my  prospects 

and  deserts  to  Uncle  Phelps,  was  at  the  same  time,  Farns- 
worth writes  me,  the  bitterest  of  my  opponents,  and  using 
his  best  efforts  to  ruin  me  in  New- York  and  Albany.  They 
are  a  sweet  set  among  whom  I  have  fallen.  They  owe 
Elliott  and  myself  an  old  grudge  for  the  favor  Stevens 
showed  us,  which  they  now  have  an  opportunity  to  repay. 
They  have  fixed  Elliott's  case  for  him,  and  they  are  busy 
settling  mine.  However  I  have  recovered  my  amiability, 
and  no  longer  feeling  any  hope  of  escape,  am  not  a  little 


WAR    LETTERS  235 

amused  at  the  trouble  they  take  regarding  me.  I  tell 
them  everything  candidly,  so  thai  they  need  be  at  no  pains 
on  my  account,  but  they,  not  supposing  it  possible  for  a 
man  to  be  staightforward,  exhaust  any  amounl  "I  us<  li 
cunning  to  gain  their  ends.  And  the  best  of  it  .ill  is,  that 
while  all  this  working  is  going  on,  we  are  all  such  capital 
friends  that  it  is  really  delightful  to  see  brethren  live  in 
such  harmony  together. 

With  regard  to  the  intended  Army  movements  we  are 
all  utterly  in  the  fog,  the  time  passing  and  the  mud 
growing  deeper,  while  batteries  are  being  built  by  the 
enemy  under  our  very  noses.  What's  the  use  of  question- 
ing ?    Time  will  show. 

I  shall  think  of  you  feasting  merrily  to-morrow,  mind- 
ful of  the  absent  son  and  brother,  and  wish  you  all  joy. 

I  am  wearing  the  stockings  you  sent  me  and  find  them 
glorious.  I  am  generally  quite  comfortable  now,  from 
the  contents  of  the  box  my  friends  prepared  and  sent  me. 
You  must  thank  all  those  to  whom  I  am  indebted,  in  my 
name.  I  shall  send  this  letter  to  New- York  direct,  sup- 
posing it  may  reach  you  sooner  so.  Love  to  Lilly,  Mary, 
Hunt,  Tom,  and  the  Infant  Department. 

Affec'y-, 

Will. 

(W.  W.  Phelps  to  E.  F.  Lusk) 

New- York,  Nov.  28th,   1862. 

My  dear  Mrs.  Lusk: 

You  will  rejoice  with  me  on  hearing  that  the  Postman 
has  just  brought  me  a  large  envelope  stamped  with  the 
State  Seal,  containing  a  Commission  for  Major  \\  .  T. 


236  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Lusk!   Hurrah!   And  Hurrah  a  second  time,  because  I 
was  too  much  for  his  honor,   Lt.-Col.  Morrison! 

I  surmised  he  would  play  Will  a  shabby  trick  and 
recommend  another,  and  I  was  ready  for  him.  I  wrote 
to  the  Gov.'s  secretary  that  he  might  nominate  a  fellow 
named  More,  but  that  Farnsworth,  I  was  pretty  sure, 
preferred  Capt.  Lusk.  Sure  enough!  In  Major  Linsly's 
letter  enclosing  the  Commission,  he  tells  me  that  Capt. 
More  presented  himself  with  Col.  Morrison's  nomination, 
whereupon  Major  Linsly  read  my  last  letter  to  the  Gov., 
in  which  I  had  anticipated  the  case,  and  the  Gov.  told 
him  to  send  me  the  Commission  for  Capt.  Lusk. 

I  write  Will  to-day,  and  send  the  Commission.  I 
daren't  send  the  latter  before  I  have  advised  Will,  or 
Col.  Morrison,  through  whose  hands  it  goes,  might  ven- 
ture to  detain  or  destroy  it. 

With  love  of  Nelly  and  me  to  Hunt  and  Mary, 

Very  truly, 
Wm.  Walter  Phelps. 

(W.  W.  Phelps  to  W.  T.  Lusk) 

Nov.  28th,  Evening. 

My  dear   Will: 

The  end  of  a  day  marked  by  the  alternation  of  joy  with 
sorrow  in  an  extreme  degree.  This  morning  the  Postman 
gave  me  a  large  envelope  covered  with  postage  stamps, 
and  marked  with  the  seal  of  the  State.  It  contained  two 
papers  —  the  one  in  a  large  envelope  with  the  same  seal 
upon  its  face  and  the  superscription  Major  W.  T.  Lusk; 
the  other,  the  letter  explanatory  from  the  Gov.'s  Secretary, 
which  I  enclose. 


WAR   LETTERS  237 

You  can  imagine  my  gratification  the  tabor  of  months 
rewarded  and  the  suspense  ended.      I   made  it   ;i   holiday. 

Your  Uncle,  who  had  travailed  with  me,  should  n  joice 
over  the  birth.  Down  I  rattled  in  the  omnibus,  with  that 
beautiful  Commission  in  my  pocket  surest  of  the  .110, 
for  hadn't  I  it  in  black  and  white  and  oil  parchment  ?  I 
could  tell  any  one,  but,  except  Nelly  and  our  folks  who  W(  re 
rejoicing  oyer  it  at  home,  Mr.  I.  N.1  should  be  the  fust. 

I  left  the  omnibus  at  the  Post-Office,  where  I  dropped 
in  a  letter  to  tell  your  mother  that  I  had  a  Commission,  in 
which  the  Commonwealth  of  N.  Y.  declared  that  for  the 
confidence  it  had  in  him,  her  son  was  declared  Major 
of  the  79th.  From  the  Post  briskly  to  45  Wall,  where 
your  Uncle  and  I  re-read  the  Commission,  shook  hands 
and  laughed  over  the  accomplishment  of  well-laid  schemes. 
Mr.  Stillman  was  still  off  for  Thanksgiving,  so  we  had 
the  office  to  ourselves. 

Finally  I  tore  myself  away  and  went  with  Commission 
and  a  light  heart  to  my  desk  at  Judge  Woodruff's.  Young 
Woodruff  read  the  Commission,  congratulated  me  and 
floored  me  with  a  telegraphic  despatch.  I  felt  it  in  my 
boots  as  soon  as  ''the  words"  (vide  Homer)  "escaped  the 
hedje  of  his  teeth,"  that  here  was  a  fall  to  Pride.  And 
so  it  was,  and  a  happy  day  received  a  most  gloomy  end. 

The  Despatch  told  me  to  send  back  the  Commission  — 
that  Capt.  More  must  have  it  —  that  Capt.  Lusk  had 
recommended  the  appointment.  I  saw  our  Postmaster 
and  told  him  to  recall  your  mother's  letter  if  possible.  I 
broke  the  joy  of  your  Uncle,  who  was  telling  Mr.  Brady 
with  glee  of  his  nephew's  promotion,  and  longed  for 
bedtime  that  I  might  cease  to  think  of  the  disappoint- 
ment of  human  hopes. 

1  Isaac  N.  Phelps. 


238  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

I  don't  see  how  you  could  well  help  signing,  but  if 
you  had  only  had  the  courage  to  rely  on  our  watchfulness 
and  refuse!  But  it's  too  late  now.  Your  Uncle  and  I 
have  only  this  melancholy  consideration  to  console  us  — 
that  we  have  spread  your  fame.  Your  name  is  as  familiar 
as  household  words  to  Mr.  A.  T.  Stewart  who  wrote  for 
your  Uncle  the  strongest  of  letters,  to  Gen.  Wetmore, 
to  Mr.  Opdyke  and  hosts  of  solid  men,  who  could  tell 
your  story  from  Bull  Run  down,  as  well  as  I. 

Never  mind,  Will,  your  disappointment  cannot  be 
any  greater  than  mine,  who  carried  "Major  Lusk's" 
Commission  for  six  hours  and  had  to  return  it. 

Only  next  time,  if  your  friends  have  worked  and  provided 
for  every  contingency  except  that,  don't  sign  away  your 
chances  by  recommending  another  for  the  place  they  seek. 

All  well.  Your  mother  comes  down  Monday  to  live 
with  Lilly. 

In  haste,  most  affec'y., 

Walter. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

December  3d,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  hasten  to  write  you  to-day,  fearful  lest  you  should 
dread  my  being  overduly  oppressed  by  any  feeling  of 
disappointment  at  not  receiving  that  promotion  in  my 
Regiment,  which  friends  may  have  flattered  themselves 
was  my  due.  I  accept  the  disappointment  without  com- 
plaint —  at  least  now,  if  not  at  first.  Its  so  indifferent  a 
matter  after  all,  what  position  I  may  fill,  so  long  as  I  am 
found  worthy  to  serve  in  any  wise  the  interests  of  a  be- 
loved country.  I  do  not  believe  you  love  or  esteem  the 
simple    Captain    less.     Rank    in    our   Army   is   of   small 


WAR   LETTERS  239 

importance  at  host.  I  know  full-fledged  Colonels  who 
once  sat  cross-legged  in  :<  tailor's  shop,  and  who  '.till 
know  a  deal  more  about  mending  breeches  than  about 
soldiering.  Our  democratic  institutions  work  beautifully 
in  the  Army.  But  I  won't  grumble,  provided  friends  at 
home  don't  fall  asleep  while  such  an  institution  as  "pip- 
ing" exists.  I  saw  Gardner  Green  to-day,  and  talked 
McClellan  to  him  until  the  cars  carried  him  off. 

By-the-way,  dear  mother,  I  need  hardly  state  to  you 
that  I  would  rather  like  to  get  out  of  the  79th  Regiment, 
and  not  only  that,  but  out  of  the  Volunteer  service  alto- 
gether. I  do  not  know  if  the  thing  be  possible,  but  would 
like  very  much  to  get  into  the  Regular  Army.  Ask  Walter 
and  Uncle  Phelps  if  they  know  of  any  parties  capable  of 
helping  me  in  the  matter.  I  suppose  there  are  plenty 
of  parties  with  feelings  similar  to  my  own,  so  that  there 
are  twenty  applicants  for  every  vacancy.  Even  if  I  were 
not  to  retain  my  Commission  after  the  close  of  the  war, 
a  position  in  the  Regular  Army  would  secure  me  more 
congenial  companions  for  the  present.  Do,  mother,  in- 
quire if  the  thing  can  be  done. 

I  like  "Old  Abe's"  emancipation  plans  as  developed 
in  his  "Message"  very  much.  His  "Emancipation 
Proclamation"  though,  I  decidedly  object  to,  after  my 
Beaufort  experience.  The  "Freedmen's  friends"  down 
there  used  to  send  home  very  glowing  accounts  of  their 

successes,   but    they  told    awful    lies.     That  whom 

Lilly  speaks  of  meeting,  was  a  rare  old  chap  in  the  way 
of  lying.  I  believe  in  getting  rid  of  slavery  at  any  cost, 
but  think  Father  Abraham  has  proposed  the  wisest  plan 
I  have  heard  of  yet. 

I  tried  to  get  a  chance  for  a  few  days  at  home  this  month, 
but  as  usual  was  told  there  was  no  chance.     Were  I  any- 


24o  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

where  else  I  could  get  home  occasionally  on  Regimental 
business,  but  I  don't  ask,  nor  expect,  any  favors  in  a 
Scotch  Regiment.  What  evil  star  ever  guided  my  destiny 
into  a  parcel  of  foreigners  ?  I  suppose  Providence  knows 
best,  and  now  I  find  myself  as  fairly  caught  as  Sterne's 
Starling  with  no  likelier  chance  of  getting  out. 
Well,  success  to  my  new  fancy  for  the  Regulars. 

Love  to  all. 
Affectionately, 

Will. 

I  am  repeatedly  informed  of  the  great  sacrifices  my  v 
brother  officers  have  made  in  coming  out  to  the  war, 
usually  in  the  following  words:  "Why,  that  man  used 
to  be  a  boss-mechanic  at  home."  Nothing  but  boss- 
mechanics  in  the  79th  are  supposed  to  have  either  hearts 
or  any  other  kind  of  entrails. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

December  7th,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

We  are  still  lying  quietly  in  camp  —  no  signs  of  a 
move  yet,  but  general  suffering  for  want  of  clothes,  shoes 
in  especial.  The  miserable  article  furnished  by  the 
Government  to  protect  the  feet  of  our  soldiers  seldom 
lasts  more  than  three  or  four  weeks,  so  it  is  easy  to  under- 
stand the  constant  cry  of  "no  shoes"  which  is  so  often 
pleaded  for  the  dilatoriness  of  the  Army.  I  am,  happily, 
well  provided  now,  and  can  assure  those  of  my  friends 

that   contributed   to   the   box  Capt.   brought  me, 

that  the  box  contained  a  world  of  comfort  for  which  I 
heartily  thank  them.  I  think  I  have  acknowledged  the 
safe  receipt  of  the  box    and  its  contents  already,  but  a 


WAR    LETTERS  241 

letter  from  Lilly  says  not.  I  will  write  Uncle  Phi  lps 
that  it  came  all  right.  I  have  had  a  rare  treat  to  'lay. 
Indeed  I  feel  as  though  I  had  devoured  a  Thanksgiving 

Turkey.  At  least  I  have  the  satisfied  feeling  ol  one  that 
has  dined  well.  I  did  not  dine  on  Peacock's  brains 
either,  but  —  I  write  it  gratefully —  I  dined  on  a  dish 
of  potatoes.  They  were  cut  thin,  fried  crisp,  and  tasted 
royally.  You  will  understand  my  innocent  enthusiasm, 
when  I  say  that  for  nearly  six  weeks  previous,  I  had  not 
tasted  a  vegetable  of  any  kind.  There  was  nothing  but 
fresh  beef  and  hard  crackers  to  be  had  all  that  time, 
varied  sometimes  by  beef  without  any  crackers,  and 
then  again  by  crackers  without  any  beef.  And  here  were 
fried  potatoes!  No  stingy  heap,  but  a  splendid  pile! 
There  was  more  than  a  "right  smart"  of  potatoes  as  the 
people  would  say  about  here.  Excuse  me,  if  warming 
with  my  theme  I  grow  diffuse.  The  Chaplain  and  I 
mess  together.  The  Chaplain  said  grace,  and  then  we 
both  commenced  the  attack.  There  were  no  words 
spoken.  We  both  silently  applied  ourselves  to  the  pleasant 
task  of  destruction.  By-and-by  there  was  only  one  piece 
left.  We  divided  it.  Then  sighing,  we  turned  to  the  fire, 
and  lighted  our  pipes,  smoking  thoughtfully.  At  length 
I  broke  the  silence.  "Chaplain,"  said  I.  "What?"  says 
Chaplain.  "Chaplain,  they  needed  SALT!"  I  said 
energetically.  Chap  puflfed  out  a  stream  of  smoke  ap- 
provingly, and  then  we  both  relapsed  again  into  silence. 
I  see  a  good  deal  of  Capt.  Stevens  now,  who  says  were 
his  father  only  living  I  would  have  little  difficulty  in 
getting  pushed  ahead.  He,  poor  fellow,  feels  himself 
very  much  neglected  after  the  very  splendid  service  he 
has  rendered.  It  is  exceedingly  consoling,  in  reading  the 
late  lists  of  promotions  made  by  the  War  Department, 


242  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

to  see  how  very  large  a  proportion  has  fallen  to  the  share 
of  young  officers  whose  time  has  been  spent  at  Fortress 
Monroe,  Baltimore,  or  anywhere  where  there  has  been 
no  fighting  done.  Perhaps  our  time  may  come  one  of 
these  days,  but  I  trust  I  may  have  better  luck  in  the 
medical  profession  than  at  soldiering.  However  I  sup- 
pose when  I  get  old,  it  will  be  a  proud  memory  to  have 
fought  honorably  at  Antietam  and  South  Mountain,  in 
any  capacity.  I  feel  the  matter  more  now,  for  I  have 
been  in  the  service  so  long,  and  so  long  in  the  same  place, 
that  I  am  fairly  ashamed  to  visit  old  friends,  all  of  whom 
hold  comparatively  high  rank.  I  do  not  see  why  before 
the  first  of  January  though,  I  should  not  be  the  Lt.-Col. 
of  the  79th  Regiment.  In  trying  to  be  Major,  I  at- 
tempted to  be  frank  and  honorable,  and  lost.  Now  I 
shall  try  to  act  honorably,  but  mean  to  try  and  win. 

I  feel  sad  enough  about  Hannah.  You  know  what 
inseparable  playmates  we  were  when  children.  God 
help  her  safely,  whatsoever  his  will  may  be. 

Love  and  kisses  for  all  but  gentlemen  friends. 

Affec'y., 

William. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 
December  10th,   1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  was  much  disappointed  to-night  not  to  hear  from  you. 
I  had  expected  a  letter  all  day  long,  but  the  usual  mail 
did  not  arrive.  I  wanted  to  hear  this  time,  because  to- 
morrow we  believe  will  be  spent  amid  the  deafening  roar 
of  cannon,  which  is  to  usher  in  another  act,  let  us  hope 
the  final  one,  of  the  grand    drama   popularly  known  as 


WAR    LET!  l  RS  243 

"Onward  to  Richmond."  While  I  write,  wagons  arc 
moving  over  the  road,  and  preparations  arc  being  com- 
pleted for  to-morrow's  engagement.  Possibly  the  enemy 
may  make  no  resistance  here,  still  their  batteries  frown 
ominously  upon  us.  The  indications  promise  the  great 
battle  of  the  war  —  possibly  an  AtlSterlitZ  lor  the  enemy 
—  wc  hope  a  Waterloo  for  us.  I  have  heretofore,  shel- 
tered by  the  prayers  of  mother  and  sisters,  been  singularly 
exempt  from  the  accidents  of  war.  The  same  Power  that 
has  already  shown  so  much  tenderness,  has  still  the  power 
to  spare.  But  if  in  His  wisdom  it  seemeth  best  this 
time  to  take  my  life,  then,  my  dear  mother,  recognize  in  it 
only  the  Hand  of  the  Inevitable.  If  my  dying  hours  were 
only  crowned  by  the  certainty  of  victory,  I  could  then 
close  my  eyes  in  peace.  And  in  the  great  joy  of  the  Na- 
tion, all  individual  griefs  were  selfish.  So  that  I  would 
have  my  mother's  heart  beat  high,  and  be  proud  to  have 
contributed  a  part  of  its  own  life's  blood  to  the  glorious 
consummation.  With  my  whole  heart  I  am  eager  for 
our  success.  Should  I  not  see  it  with  my  earthly  eyes, 
still  let  my  mother  rejoice  for  me,  when  all  once  more 
is  well.  But  I  am  not  given  to  entertaining  forebodings. 
It  is  enough  to  do  one's  duty  and  let  Providence  pro- 
vide. I  prefer  to  think  of  the  time  when  we  all  will  return 
home,  the  laurel  won.  Think  of  the  pride  I  shall  feel 
as  my  own  Regiment  receives  its  welcome  from  the  joy- 
ous citizens  of  New- York,  a  welcome  deserved  by  its 
conduct  on  many  fields.  Think  of  the  stories  I  would 
have  to  tell.  I  believe  that  Mary's  boys  —  the  next 
generation  —  will  be  better  when  they  hear  the  story  of 
the  present.  And  another  generation  still,  when  the 
dimness  of  time  shall  have  enhanced  the  romance,  will 
dearly  love  to  hear  the  tale  of  the  Great  Rebellion  from 


244  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

the  lips  of  Uncle  Will.  I  think  a  wound  —  not  a  danger- 
ous one,  but  some  mark  to  show  at  the  climax  of  the 
tale  —  would  both  contribute  to  the  interest,  and  heighten 
the  effect.  Let  us  hope  for  the  best  in  all  things  then, 
and  believe  that  in  all  things,  if  we  seek,  we  may  always 
find  a  best. 

Give  my  best  love  to  Tom  and  Lilly,  Hunt,  Mary  and 
the  boys,  Walter,  Ellen  and  Nellie,  Cousin  Louisa.  Pshaw! 
My  dear  friends  are  so  numerous  that  I  cannot  mention 
them  without  surely  omitting  many  often  in  remembrance, 
so  good-bye. 

AfFec'y.  your  son, 

Will. 

(Note  appended  in  his  mother  s  handwriting) 

My  dear,  dear  child,  he  has  a  nobler,  purer,  better,  more 

unselfish  heart,  than  the  poor  weak  mother  who  gave  him 

birth. 

[Battle  of  Fredericksburg] 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

Dec.   16th,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Back  again  once  more  in  the  old  camp,  sound  as  a 
dollar.  Would  that  10,000  lying  on  the  field  across  the 
river,  or  stretched  on  rude  soldiers'  beds  in  pain  and 
some  in  mortal  agony,  could  say  as  much!  Gone  are  the 
proud  hopes,  the  high  aspirations  that  swelled  our  bosoms 
a  few  days  ago.  Once  more  unsuccessful,  and  only  a 
bloody  record  to  show  our  men  were  brave.  This  can- 
not heal  the  broken  hearts  this  pitiful  record  is  to  cause. 
That  God  must  do!  Alas,  my  poor  country!  It  has  strong 
limbs  to  march,  and  meet  the  foe,  stout  arms  to  strike 


WAR    LETTERS  245 

heavy  blows,  brave  hearts  to  dare  but  the  brains, 
the  brains  —  have  we  no  brains  to  use  th<  arms  and  limbs 
and  eager  hearts  with  cunning?  Perhaps  Old  Abe  has 
some  funny  story  to  tell  appropi  iate  to  the  occasion.    Alas, 

let  us  await  the  wise  words  of  Father  Abraham!  I  ay 
1  am  bark,  having  recrossed  the  river  aboul  two  o'clock 

this  morning.  Yesterday  evening  I  was  sent  out  with 
a  couple  of  hundred  sharpshooters  to  cover  the  front  until 
the  troops  were  all  withdrawn.  1  lure  I  lay  supporting 
the  pickets  within  two  or  three  hundred  yards  of  the  enemy 
while  our  troops  crossed  the  river.  Then  word  was  sent 
us,  and  in  silence  we  fell  back,  crossed  ourselves,  and 
then  the  pontoons  were  removed.  Now  we  are  in  the 
old  camp,  and  I  am  happy  to  write  myself  down  in 
the  number  of  those  who  have  narrowly  escaped.  In  the 
battle  of  Saturday,  troops  were  thrown  into  the  fight 
without  any  seeming  regularity.  Many  were  not  under 
fire  at  all.  Among  the  latter  were  the  First,  and  a  part 
of  the  Second  Division  of  Wilcox's  Corps.  You  know  I 
belong  to  the  First  Division.  Our  position  gave  me  a 
fine  opportunity  to  witness  the  battle.  It  was  a  bonnie 
sight  though,  and  thrillingly  exciting.  From  the  crests  of 
the  hills  frowned  the  enemy's  batteries.  The  citv  was 
gay  with  our  troops.  Beyond  the  city  and  below  the 
batteries  was  open  country  giving  no  "cover  to  advancing 
troops.  Over  this  expanse  our  men  were  marched.  The 
pennons  fluttered  gaily  in  the  sunshine.  Then  suddenlv 
the  hills  seemed  to  vomit  forth  smoke  wreathing  them 
in  obscurity.  Then  followed  the  thunder  of  the  cannon, 
intermingled  with  the  screaming  of  the  bursting  shells. 
The  ordeal  was  a  terrible  one.  Some  Regiments  marched 
on  without  flinching;  others  fell  back.  To  the  left, 
running  diagonally,  was  a  stone-wall.     A  portion  of  our 


246  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

troops  drew  near  it.  This  suddenly  is  likewise  jetting 
with  curls  of  smoke,  followed  by  the  sharp  crack  of  the 
rifle  and  the  angry  humming  of  the  conical  balls.  Now 
the  troops  are  shaken.  Stragglers  run  rapidly  to  the 
rear,  then  whole  Regiments  fall  back  with  torn  colors 
and  broken  ranks.  It  is  of  no  use.  That  terrible  stone- 
wall is  alive  with  death.  Many  Regiments  try  to  reach 
it.  Their  efforts  avail  nothing  though.  Nearly  in  the 
center  of  the  hill,  west,  there  stands  a  fine  old  Virginia 
mansion  of  red  brick  with  a  stately  colonnade  running 
along  its  front.  It  was  here  that  Col.  Farnsworth  had 
his  headquarters  last  summer.  This  point  was  often 
attacked  by  our  troops,  but  the  house  was  like  a  hornet's 
nest.  The  enemy  was  strongly  posted  about  it,  in  its 
alcoves,  outbuildings  and  windows.  There  was  death 
only,  for  those  who  tried  to  reach  it.  Our  troops  found 
some  partial  cover  at  a  point  below  the  house  at  the  foot 
of  the  hill,  where  a  small  white  house  stood.  Here  two 
American  banners  were  planted,  the  dear  old  thirteen 
stripes!  How  breathlessly  we  watched  them!  Though 
often  attacked,  when  the  smoke  wreathed  upward,  our 
hearts  were  happy  to  see  the  colors  still  floating  defiantly 
near  the  small  white  house.  At  length  night  closed  on 
the  scene.  We  believed  the  bloody  day  was  done.  There 
was  one  scene  yet  bloodier  to  be  enacted.  A  final  night- 
attack  was  decided  upon.  We  could  not  see  our  troops 
advancing  in  the  darkness,  but  we  heard  a  yell  along 
the  rebel  line.  Then  a  rapid  musketry  fire  ran  along  the 
heights  —  a  more  terrible  fire  I  never  have  seen.  Forked 
tongues  of  flame  such  as  old  artists  paint  issuing  from 
the  mouths  of  the  serpents  to  whom  is  given  the  tormenting 
of  the  damned,  flashed  in  the  night  with  a  brilliant  effect 
as  the  fire  was  delivered  from  man  to  man.     Then  dark- 


WAR   LETTERS  247 

ncss  followed.  Then  silence.  And  we  knew  that  more 
blood  had  l>een  slied  and  nothing  won.  The  next  morn- 
ing we  were  told  that  the  9th  Army  Corps  was  expected 
to  storm  the  heights.  It  was  Sunday  morning.  The 
Regiment  was  drawn  up  in  line.  The  Chaplain  read 
a  chapter  from  the  Bible,  then  said  a  short  prayer. 
The  men  followed  the  prayer  with  their  hearts,  as  men 
do  who  may  never  pray  again.  I  hen  the  word  was 
given,  "  Forward,"  and  we  started  on  the  march,  few 
hoping  to  survive.  Then  we  were  ordered  to  halt.  We 
lay  long  in  a  state  of  expectancy.  Meanwhile  a  new 
council  of  Generals  was  being  held.  There  had  been 
enough  blood  fruitlessly  shed,  said  the  most.  No  more 
of  the  madness  and  folly  which  will  only  result  in  the  cer- 
tain destruction  of  our  army.  Ten  thousand  men  lost  and 
the  enemy  sits  unharmed  in  his  trenches.  Burnside  says 
he  will  lead  his  own  corps  in  person.  But  finally  reason 
prevails  ir\-  the  council.  The  attack  is  postponed  and 
finally  abandoned.  Last  night  the  troops  crossed  the 
river,  and  to-day  we  are  counting  on  our  fingers  the  thous- 
ands of  men  the  events  of  the  past  few  days  have  cost  us. 
There  are  impossibilities  in  warfare  —  things  that  no 
troops  can  accomplish,  however  brave  they  may  be.  They 
cannot  for  one  thing  cross  long  stretches  of  open  country 
without  any  cover  in  the  face  of  an  artillery  fire  of  any 
magnitude,  and  then  clamber  up  a  hill-side  exposed  to 
the  musketry  of  a  concealed  foe,  and  then  cross  the  ditches 
and  scale  the  earthworks  of  the  enemy,  driving  the  latter 
from  their  position  with  the  bayonet.  Men  fight  in 
masses.  To  be  brave  they  must  be  inspired  by  the  feel- 
ing of  fellowship.  Shoulder  must  touch  shoulder.  As 
gaps  are  opened  the  men  close  together,  and  remain  for- 
midable.    But  when  the  ranks  are  torn  by  artillery,  the 


248  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

cohesion  begins  to  fail.  Then  expose  the  men  for  several 
hundred  yards  to  a  murderous  fire  of  musketry,  and 
front  rank  man  is  gone,  rear  rank  man  is  gone,  com- 
rades in  battle  are  gone  too.  A  few  men  struggle  along 
together,  but  the  whole  mass  has  become  diluent.  Little 
streams  of  men  pour  in  various  directions.  They  no 
longer  are  amenable  to  command.  The  colors  must  be 
drawn  to  a  place  of  safety,  and  in  time  the  men  will 
gather  around  it  again.  Numbers  can  efFect  little  under 
such  circumstances,  provided  they  have  no  means  of 
touching  the  enemy.  The  latter,  lying  under  cover,  fir- 
ing from  a  place  of  safety,  may  murder  your  men.  You 
may  try  again  and  again  the  experiment,  but  each  repe- 
tition only  lengthens  the  butcher's  bill.  Now  I  have 
written  all  this  to  show  that  success,  as  the  attack  was 
made,  was  impossible.  In  the  same  way  we  butchered 
the  Confederates  at  Malvern  Hill. 

Well,  I  have  seen  McDonald,  and  felt  quite  happy  to 
meet  one  who  had  been  so  lately  among  my  friends  at 
home.  He  told  me  of  Uncle  Phelps'  offer  of  a  horse, 
of  his  efforts  for  me  and  their  probable  success,  and 
brought  me  some  liquor  and  cigars  from  him  and  Cousin 
Henry.  Give  them  my  thanks,  and  say  I  delay  acknowl- 
edging their  kindness  in  a  special  manner,  until  I  can 
learn  all  particulars  from  the  Doctor.  Arriving  here  the 
day  of  the  battle,  he  has  been  so  busy  in  the  hospitals 
since,  that  I  have  barely  learned  the  above  facts  as  they 
were  hurriedly  repeated  by  him.  I  will  write  Uncle 
Phelps  as  soon  as  McDonald  has  time  to  tell  me  any- 
thing more  than  the  general  result  of  his  visit. 

I  am  so  cold,  that  though  I  have  much  more  that  I 
would  like  to  write,  I  must  close  and  go  to  the  fire.  I 
may  write  again  to-morrow.     Love  to  all. 

Affec'y.,  Will. 


WAR   LETTERS  249 

BaTTI.K    OI-     I'  I' I  III  I'K  I.M'.ri". 

Dp.c.  13,  1862 
" Antietam  and  Frtdericksburg,'  p.  138. 

"General  Burnside's  whole  plan  was  based  upon  the  expectation  of 
an  immediate  occupation  ol  I'  icdcricksburg.  .  .  .  I  In-  promised  pon- 
toons did  not  arrive  until  the  25th,  eight  days  after  Sumnei  reached 
the  river.  .  .  .  Thus  it  happened  that  before  the  pontoons  arrived,  the 

Confederates  had  concentrated  a  large  force  on  the  Opposite  side  of 
the  river." 

Page  141.  "It  is  a  familiar  military  maxim  that  a  general  should 
never  do  what  his  adversary  wishes  him  to  do.  I  here  probably  m  *  r 
was  an  occasion  since  the  first  body  of  troops  was  arrayed,  when  a  g<  n- 
eral  did  more  precisely  what  his  adversary  wished  him  to  do  than  Burn- 
side  did  at  Fredericksburg.  When  the  Confederates  began  to  fortify 
the  heights  in  the  rear  of  Fredericksburg  is  uncertain,  as  it  is  uncertain 
just  when  the  last  of  Lee's  army  arrived  there,  but  their  advance  was  tin  re 
nearly  a  month  before  the  battle,  and  their  last  arrivals  probably  a  fort- 
night before  it.  Lee's  present  for  duty  December  10th,  1862,  was  78,228. 
Seventy  or  eighty  thousand  men,  working  with  a  will,  throw  up  perfectly 
sufficient  earthworks  in  a  very  few  days,  not  to  mention  the  assistance 
which  the  Confederates  probably  had  from  working  parties  of  blacks. 
There  was  probably  nothing  that  the  engineering  talent  of  the  Con- 
federacy could  supply,  wanting  to  the  completeness  of  their  defence  on 
the  13th  of  December,  1862." 

Page  166.  "At  Fredericksburg  we  see  a  gallant  army  engaged  in  an 
undertaking  at  once  unnecessary  and  hopeless,  and  sent  to  destruction 
with  no  plan  and  no  preparation." 

Page  184.  "The  gallantry  displayed  by  the  Federal  army  was  the 
more  to  its  credit,  because  of  the  feeling  which  prevailed  in  it.  .  .  . 
The  Army  of  the  Potomac  had  been  at  Malvern  Hill  and  at  Sharpsburg. 
It  knew  how  the  Southern  and  Northern  armies  in  turn  had  fared 
when  either  undertook  to  assail  its  opponent  in  a  chosen  position, 
and  the  difficulties  of  the  position  to  be  carried  at  Malvern  Hill  and 
at  Sharpsburg  were  as  nothing  to  the  difficulties  of  the  position  at 
Fredericksburg." 

"79//;  Highlanders"  p.  262. 

"About  eight  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  1 2th  we  marched 
down  to  the  river,  crossed,  and,  a  short  distance  to  the  left  of  the 
bridge,  brigade  line  was  formed,  where  we  remained  for  several 
hours." 

Page  263.  "About  eight  o'clock  the  next  morning,  Saturday,  the 
13th,  our  artillery  opened  a  furious  cannonade,  under  cover  of  which 
our  troops  advanced  to  the  positions  from  which  they  were  to  make  the 


250  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

assault.  The  Ninth  corps,  occupying  that  part  of  our  line  below  the 
town,  between  Hazel  and  Deep  Runs,  was  ordered  to  be  in  readiness  to 
support  the  attacks  of  either  Franklin  on  our  left,  or  Couch  who  com- 
manded the  Second  corps,  on  our  right. 

"At  noon  the  assault  began.  .  .  .  The  troops  moved  forward  bravely, 
and  as  soon  as  they  gained  the  open  plain,  were  met  by  a  terrific  fire 
from  the  guns  of  the  enemy;  the  storm  of  shot  and  shell  was  fearful, 
and  wrought  sad  havoc  in  the  advancing  ranks.  Our  troops  pressed 
forward,  however,  until  they  came  within  range  of  the  enemy's  infantry, 
and  there  their  advance  was  checked.  Flesh  and  blood  could  not  with- 
stand the  terrible  shower  of  iron  and  lead  that  now  poured  into  their 
already  decimated  ranks,  and  the  men  were  obliged  to  lie  down  behind 
such  slight  shelter  as  the  rolling  ground  afforded.  The  bravest  of  our 
troops  held  their  ground,  while  others  fell  back  in  disorder,  and  suffered 
heavily  again  in  their  retreat  across  the  open  ground. 

"About  three  o'clock  in  the  afternoon  our  division  was  sent  across 
Deep  Run  to  support  Franklin,  but  his  advance  had  been  checked, 
and  thus  we  were  saved  from  the  fearful  slaughter  of  the  day.  .  .  .  We 
lay  on  our  arms  until  about  four  o'clock  Sunday  morning,  at  which 
time  we  marched  back  to  the  city,  where  the  whole  corps  was  massed. 
.  .  .  The  15th  was  passed  without  anything  worthy  of  note  occurring 
till  after  dark,  when  fifty  picked  men  under  Capt.  Lusk  and  Lieutenants 
Armour  and  Menzies,  were  ordered  to  advance  as  near  the  enemy's 
lines  as  possible  without  drawing  their  fire,  and  hold  the  position 
till  further  orders.  We  supposed  at  this  time  that  Burnside  had 
re-adopted  his  plan  of  attacking  with  the  Ninth  corps.  .  .  .  The  men 
moved  quietly  through  the  lower  end  of  the  city  and  out  on  the  plain 
between  it  and  the  enemy's  works.  It  was  very  dark,  and  .  .  .  they 
marched  noiselessly  along.  .  .  .  When  within  a  hundred  yards  —  as  near 
as  could  be  guessed  —  of  his  pickets,  our  men  halted  and  lay  down  flat 
on  the  ground;  orders  were  passed  in  whispers.  .  .  .  This  position  was 
maintained  till  within  an  hour  of  daylight,  when  orders  were  quietly 
given  to  withdraw.  ...  It  now  began  to  dawn  upon  the  minds  of  our 
party,  that  they  were  covering  the  retreat  of  a  portion  of  our  army;  this 
was  confirmed  when,  on  entering  the  city,  not  a  living  person  but  them- 
selves was  to  be  seen  or  heard;  .  .  .  and  when  the  last  of  our  men  stepped 
on  the  bridge,  the  ropes  that  held  the  bridge  to  the  shore  were  cut.  .  .  . 
It  was  daylight  when  our  men  reached  camp,  feeling  quite  proud  of  the 
confidence  placed  in  their  courage  and  prudence,  which  caused  them  to 
be  selected  for  such  an  important  and  delicate  task." 


WAR    LETTERS 


251 


(Col.  A.  Farnsworth  to  W.    I  .  Lusk) 

New- York,  December  20th,  1862. 

My  dear  Lusk: 

Your  last  letter  1ms  nor  been  answered   before  this, 

because  of  the  reason  that  you  -ye  army  of  tin  Potomac 
—  were  on  the  move  before  it  reached  me,  and  I  felt  dis- 
posed to  await  your  arrival  in  Richmond!  The  "turn 
of  things"  lately,  however,  has  induced  me  to  alter  my 
mind. 

In  regard  to  the  matter  of  the  Majorship,  I  must  con- 
fess I  was  "dead  beat."  They  got  "way  ahead"  of  me. 
I'll  explain  all  to  you  satisfactorily  when  we  meet. 

I  suppose  you  have  seen  Dr.  McDonald,  and  that  he 
has  told  you  how  "on  the  29th  of  October,  Gen.  Burn- 
side  wrote  a  letter  to  the  War  Department,  recommend- 
ing me  for  a  Brigadiership,"  and  how  the  said  letter  was 
sent  to  Gen.  McClellan  for  his  approval,  and  never  re- 
turned. Now,  if  that  letter  could  be  reproduced  and  sent 
again  to  the  War  Department,  nothing  would  prevent 
me  from  soon  pocketing  a  Brigadier's  Commission.  I'll 
tell  you  a  joke  about  the  Brigadiership,  rather  at  my 
expense  however.  The  other  day  Thurlow  Weed  was 
sitting  with  the  President  —  Generallissimo  Lincoln  — 
when  Col.  Farnsworth's  card  was  sent  in.  Weed,  suppos- 
ing that  the  card  represented  this  individual,  remarked, 
"By  the  way,  Mr.  President,  my  call  on  you  was  par- 
ticularly in  relation  to  Col.  Farnsworth."  And  then  he 
"put  in"  for  me,  leaving  with  the  promise  that  my  name 
should  be  sent  in  to  the  Senate  immediately.  Three  or 
four  days  thereafter,  to  the  astonishment  of  Mr.  Weed, 
he  saw  an  announcement  in  the  papers  that  Col.  Farns- 
worth of  Illinois  had  been  appointed  a  Brigadier!      In 


252  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

fact,  the  Illinois  Farnsworth  secured  his  promotion  at  the 
expense  of  the  New- York  Farnsworth.  Mr.  Weed  and 
others  are  now  pushing  the  thing  for  me,  but  as  every 
Col.  in  the  army  is  now  an  applicant  for  a  Brigadier- 
ship,  I  am  not  disposed  to  rely  solely  upon  the  aid  and 
influence  of  politicians.  That  letter  from  Burnside  would 
fix  the  thing  at  once.  In  the  event  of  my  promotion,  you 
can  rely  upon  the  Lieut.-Colonelcy.  Keep  mum  on  the 
subject.  Of  course  this  matter  is  in  my  own  hands.  As 
soon  as  my  name  is  sent  in  to  the  Senate,  I  shall  go  to 
Albany  at  once.  I  can  do  far  more  with  Seymour  than 
a  Black  Republican.  Now  keep  quiet  and  get  your  straps. 
I  am  getting  better  —  leg  improving  a  little.  Great 
excitement  here  among  ye  people  in  relation  to  Fredericks- 
buro-  affair.  Don't  be  surprised  to  hear  in  a  few  days 
that  "Old  Abe"  has  been  forced  to  abdicate  or  change 
his  cabinet. 

Regards  to  all.     Yours, 

A.  Farnsworth. 

New- York,  Dec.  20th,  1862, 

Saturday. 
My  own  dear,  dear  Son: 

I  have  many  times  during  the  past  week  thought  of 
writing  yo.u,  but  I  could  not.  Disaster,  death,  and  the 
sickness  of  distressing  fears  have  kept  me  quiet,  striving 
for  a  firm  trust  and  confidence  in  the  mercy  of  God.  My 
mind  has  been  greatly  relieved  on  your  account,  by  see- 
ing in  the  Herald  that  Burns'  Division,  of  which  the  79th 
formed  a  part,  were  not  under  fire,  although  they  ren- 
dered important  service.  Thanks  and  praise  to  Him 
who  has,  I  trust,  again  brought  you  safely  through  the 


WAR    LETTERS  253 

perils  of  the  battlefield.  When  the  news  of  the  repulse, 
with  the  dreadful  loss  on  our  side,  reached  New- York, 
gloom  and  despondency  rested  on  all  who  had  hearts  to 
feel  for  anything.  The  sickening  list  of  dead  and  wounded 
have  been  read  over  again  and  again,  by  mothers  and 
sisters  with  tears  and  groans.  Fathers  sink  their  heads 
in  anguish,  and  for  all  this  distress  and  agony,  we  have 
gained  nothing.  But  my  dear  son,  the  Nation  is  now  I 
believe  fully  aroused,  and  the  awful  responsibility  of  this 
dreadful  slaughter  must  rest  where  it  belongs.  None 
of  our  rulers,  we  hope  and  believe,  will  now  escape  the 
searching  ordeal,  and  though  this  thought  brings  little 
consolation  to  the  "desolated  hearth,"  yet  for  the  brave 
hearts  still  "battling  for  their  country,"  it  may  bring 
some  cheer.  I  visited  St.  Vincent's  Hospital  yesterday 
with  your  Aunt  Maria,  who  is  constantly  doing  good 
from  her  abundant  means  to  the  sick  and  wounded  sol- 
diers. I  talked  with  one  poor  fellow  who  had  lost  a  leg, 
and  was  lying  weak  and  pale  in  bed.  He  was  so  uncom- 
plaining, so  cheerful,  I  looked  and  wondered.  He  was  so 
glad  to  get  newspapers,  he  felt  anxious  about  his  brothers 
in  the  army  before  Fredericksburg,  he  had  looked  over 
the  lists  and  their  names  were  not  there,  and  so  he  hoped 
they  were  safe.  I  told  him  I  had  my  anxieties  too,  I 
had  a  dear  son  there,  but  so  many  days  had  passed  I  had 
courage  to  hope  now.  I  learnt  a  lesson  by  that  bedside. 
I  am  waiting,  watching  for  letters  from  you.  I  feel  that 
good  reasons  of  some  kind  prevent  my  hearing.  Sam 
and  Wm.  Elliott  called  to  see  me  last  Sunday  evening, 
but  I  was  out,  which  I  deeply  regretted.  Lilly  saw 
them,  as  they  called  first  at  our  boarding-house,  24  W  est 
31st  Street.  I  am  still  on  Murray  Hill,  but  am  going 
into  my  own  apartments  early  next  week.     Wm.  Elliott 


254 


WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 


said  he  saw  in  Washington  a  picture  of  Gen.  Stevens 
and  his  staff,  and  as  he  was  buying  one  for  himself  he 
also  bought  one  for  us,  which  he  would  soon  bring  to  us. 
The  likeness  of  you  he  says  is  very  good.  Dr.  Elliott 
has  been  transferred  to  the  Second  Hawkins  Zouaves 
and  will  be  in  N.  Y.,  he  thinks,  two  months  longer. 
I  presume  your  Uncle  will  write  you  about  your  propo- 
sition to  raise  money  for  the  Highlanders  uniform.  He 
seems  to  be  considering  the  matter,  though  he  has  said 
little  except  that  it  would  be  well,  and  might  perhaps 
be  done,  if  you  could  come  on  yourself.  We  do  not  feel 
that  the  Highlanders,  although  a  valiant  Regt.,  have  been 
just  or  kind  to  you.  We  are  proud  of  the  deeds  of  that 
gallant  corps  however,  and  if  they  do  you  the  justice 
that  is  your  due,  I  think  your  friends  would  gladly  assist 
them.  Nellie  is  hurrying  me  so  I  must  close.  Charlie 
Johnson  is  engaged  to  Miss  Julia  White,  sister  to  Dr. 
Lee's  wife. 

God  bless  you,  my  own  dear  son.  If  the  prayers  of 
mother  and  sisters  are  indeed  a  shelter,  ours  have  not 
been  in  vain.  May  God  guard,  guide,  be  with  you 
everywhere,  is  my  constant  cry  to  Him.  Uncle  P.,  Aunt 
M.,  Nellie,  Thomas,  Lilly,  all  unite  in  love  to  you  and  in 
gratitude  to  God  for  your  preservation  from  danger. 

Always  my  own  dear,  dear  son,  your  very 

Loving  Mother. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

Dec.  22nd,  1862. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Since  the  late  disastrous  affair  at  Fredericksburg,  as 
before,  I  look  in  vain  for  some  tidings  from  you.  These 
mails!    As  for  me,  it  is  of  less  importance,  for  the  letters 


WAR    LETTERS 


2SS 


you  write  me  will  eventually  reach  me,  but  with  you  I 
hope  that  long  ere  this,  you  may  have  had  the  pleasant 
tidings  of  my  safety  throughout  tin-  late  battle.  Of  that 
fight  I  have  not  words  to  express  my  indignation.  It  - 
so  uncalled  for.  Not  being  a  participant  myself,  only 
an  anxious  witness,  I  can  fully  appreciate  the  terrible 
character  of  the  massacre.  No  one  was  more  desirous 
than  I  for  an  onward  movement,  but  not  for  such  an  one. 
The  idea  of  an  attempt  directly  in  the  front  was  scouted 
at  by  those  who  professed  to  know,  as  sheer  madness, 
concerning  which  the  result  could  not  be  doubtful.  Yet 
it  was  attempted,  but  at  whose  orders  we  cannot  tell. 
Rumors  reach  us  of  the  resignation  of  Lincoln's  Cabinet. 
God  grant  this  be  true.  We  may  fall  into  worse  hands, 
but  there  is  the  hope  of  something  better.  I  have  lost 
faith  in  Halleck,  and  for  this  reason.  Last  summer  I 
wrote  Walter  I  had  cheered  the  last  time  for  McClellan. 
I  did  this  on  the  authority  of  Gen.  Halleck.  Halleck  was 
an  unsuccessful  competitor  of  Stevens  for  the  honors  of 
his  class.  At  Newport  News  Halleck  had  an  interview 
with  Stevens,  the  result  of  which  I  afterwards  learned. 
In  this  interview  Halleck  represented  McClellan  as  solely 
responsible  for  the  misfortunes  of  the  Peninsula;  repre- 
sented that  McClellan  had  received  everything  from  the 
administration  he  had  requested;  that  McClellan  was 
responsible  for  the  division  in  his  command,  resulting  in 
the  creation  of  McDowell's  Department.  This  and  much 
else  against  McClellan,  which  Halleck's  subsequent  re- 
port, and  the  revelations  from  the  McDowell  Court  of 
Inquiry,  prove  to  have  been  base  and  malignant  false- 
hoods. Since  then  it  has  been  my  good  fortune  to  have 
been  twice  in  battle  under  McClellan.  How  admirably 
those  battles  were  planned   and   executed,   I,  who    have 


256  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

seen  so  much  mismanagement,  so  many  defeats,  know 
best  how  to  appreciate.  Therefore  I  say,  as  I  heard  a 
rebel  officer  once  say  "God  bless  old  Stonewall  Jackson," 
"God  bless  McClellan."  We  have  had  enough  of  Hal- 
leck  —  and  disgrace. 

Mother,  do  not  wonder  that  my  loyalty  is  growing 
weak.  I  love  the  Nation  too  well  to  willingly  pardon 
the  "  unfortunate  Abraham  Lincoln  "  as  the  London 
Times  so  aptly  calls  him.  With  resources  enough  to 
have  long  since  ended  the  controversy,  with  resources 
enough  to  end  it  before  the  opening  of  Spring,  sixty  years 
will  not  end  it  if  we  are  obliged  to  sustain  the  paltry 
policy  of  the  administration.  I  am  sick  and  tired  of 
disaster,  and  the  fools  that  bring  disaster  upon  us.  I 
believe  Burnside  to  be  brave  and  honest,  a  good  sol- 
dier and  worthy  of  honor,  but  I  know  that  no  one  in  this 
country  has  a  heartier  esteem  for  McClellan  than  he. 
No  one  bends  more  to  McClellan  than  Gen.  Burnside. 
The  President  I  doubt  not  is  honest,  but  "let  the  shoe- 
maker stick  to  the  last."  Let  Lincoln  turn  his  talents 
to  splitting  rails.  I  prefer  George  McClellan  to  Abraham 
Lincoln,  as  the  Commander-in-Chief  of  the  Army.  The 
same  energy,  the  same  good-sense,  the  same  foresight 
exhibited  by  us  that  the  South  has  shown,  and  the 
rebellion  is  a  dead  letter.  The  same  fatal  disregard  of 
common  sense  on  our  part,  and  the  Southern  independence 
is  won.  At  least  so  I  feel,  and  so  I  write  strongly,  who 
so  earnestly  pray  for  the  triumph  of  our  cause. 

I  have  just  received  your  letter,  and  feel  truly  thank- 
ful to  learn  you  had  heard  of  my  safety  previous  to  the 
arrival  of  my  own  letter  written  the  day  after  we  recrossed 
the  Rappahannock.  Day  before  yesterday  I  was  on 
picket,  and  saw  several  officers  of  the  rebel  service  who 


WAR   LETThRS  257 

came  to  our  lines  under  a  flag  of  truce.  One  of  them 
who  came  from  near  Atlanta,  told  me  he  knew  Alfred 
Tyler;  that  it  was  a  mistake  that  Alfred  was  on  Gen. 
Lawton's  staff;  that,  on  the  contrary,  he  still  was  em- 
ployed on  the  Macon  and  Atlanta  R.  R.,  and  was  reputed 
to  be  one  of  the  truest  supporters  of  the  Southern  move- 
ment in  his  district.  The  same  officer,  Capt.  McBride, 
appeared  to  know  enough  of  Tyler's  family  and  family 
affairs  to  make  his  statement  worthy  of  credit.  The  same 
officer  further  told  me  that  among  the  brave  officers  of  his 
army  that  fell  at  Fredericksburg,  was  Henry  Lord  King, 
whom  you  will  remember  was  an  old  admirer  of  Sarah 
Phelps.  King  fell,  pierced  by  nine  minie  balls,  in  the 
attack  made  on  our  left  (Franklin's  Division).  Mor- 
rison professes  to  be  a  strong  supporter  of  mine  now. 
He  says  that  there  had  been  so  much  intriguing  in  the 
Regiment,  that  he  suspected  me  for  some  time,  but  my 
action  with  regard  to  More  has  fully  satisfied  him,  and 
he  professes  himself  anxious  to  serve  me  in  any  way. 
What  the  professions  are  worth  I  have  yet  to  learn. 

Give  my  best,  my  dearest  love  to  my  sisters.  Tell 
Uncle  Phelps  that  I  leave  my  proposition  to  be  settled 
according  to  his  judgment,  and  with  best  love  to  him  and 
all  my  friends,     I  remain, 

Your  affec.  son,  W.  T.  Lusk. 

Camp  near  Fredericksburg,  Va. 

Dec.  23d,  1862. 

My  dear  Mother: 

Time  slips  by  without  much  to  break  the  monotony 
of  the  hour,  but  still  it  slips  by  rapidly.  We  had  a  re- 
view to-day,   Gen.   Sumner   being  the   reviewing  officer. 


258  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

One  of  his  staff,  a  Major  Crosby,  stopped  to  say  to 
me  that  he  understood  I  was  a  Norwich  boy,  and,  a 
Norwich  boy  himself,  he  would  be  happy  if  I  would  call 
on  him.  Do  you  know  who  he  is  ?  I  do  not  as  a  rule 
cultivate  acquaintances  much;  it  is  so  mortifying  to  be 
in  a  subordinate  position.  I  cannot  bear  to  be  patron- 
ized, and  my  position  subjects  me  to  the  annoyance. 
Surely,  people  have  a  right  to  argue,  when  the  most  com- 
mon of  tradesmen  are  found  worthy  of  the  highest  and 
most  responsible  military  posts  without  an  hour's  prepa- 
ration, this  fellow,  who  boasts  of  being  an  educated 
gentleman,  must  be  poor  stuff  indeed,  if,  after  eighteen 
months  service,  he  finds  himself  unable  to  command  as 
good  a  position  as  he  did  a  half  year  ago.  McDonald 
says  it  is  a  long  road  without  any  turn  to  it,  but  I  begin 
to  feel  my  military  ambition  satisfied.  I  would  be  so 
glad  if  I  could  only  return  to  my  medical  studies.  I 
know  when  I  left  home  I  acted  contrary  to  the  advice 
of  all  my  friends.1  Until  now,  pride  forbade  my  acknowl- 
edging myself  in  the  wrong,  but  stung  and  humiliated,  I 
make  my  confession  now.  Many  a  time  I  have  seen  old 
school  friends  from  Russell's  (who  in  old  times  felt  proud 
to  claim  me  as  an  acquaintance)  pass  me,  high  in  rank 
and  proud  of  manner,  and  I  have  turned  away  my  head. 
I  could  not  bear  the  thought  of  their  recognizing  me  less 
honored  than  themselves.  I  am  not  often  unhappy,  for 
I  have  already  written  that  few  officers  of  any  rank  in 
the  Army  Corps  enjoy  as  many  privileges  as  are  accorded 
to  me.  To  say  the  least  I  meet  a  cordial  welcome  every- 
where, from  the  Headquarters  of  the  Commanding 
General  down.  Still  at  times  I  cannot  help  feeling  half 
sickened  at  the  mortifying  position  in  which  I  am  placed. 

1  He  enlisted  in  the  ranks,  being  unwilling  to  wait  for  a  Commission.   (Cf.  p.  225.) 


WAR    LETTERS 


2  59 


When  in  active-  service,  in  the  presence  of  the  enemy,  I 
am  never  troubled  with  such  thoughts,  l>ut  in  camp  a  man 
has  too  much  time  in  which  to  think.  If  the  troop 
into  winter  quarters,  I  do  not  think  I  will  be  able  to 
endure  this  state  of  things  until  Spring.  I  unit  return  to 
my  medical  studies  again.  Why,  the  most  humble  coun- 
try practitioner  is  more  respectable  than  I,  a  despised 
soldier,  found  unworthy  of  honors  which  the  commonest 
shoemaker  wears  with  grace.  I  do  not  forger  how 
anxious  my  friends  have  been  to  serve  me,  how  earn- 
estly they  have  labored  and  are  laboring  for  me.  But 
is  not  that  mortifying  too — to  feel  that,  after  all,  you  must 
owe  all  advancement  not  to  your  own  merits,  but  to  the 
influence  of  your  friends  ?  My  dear  mother,  you  must 
feel  that  in  writing  this  I  am  only  telling  my  griefs,  as  one 
may  tell  them  to  one's  mother,  and,  having  told  them, 
find  relief. 

I  do  so  wish  I  might  come  home.  I  am  weak  as  a 
child  now.  To-morrow  I  will  be  stronger,  and  will  regret 
this  that  I  have  written,  yet  I  shall  send  it  for  all  that. 
I  shall  send  it  because  merely  to  tell  one's  troubles  to  a 
sympathizing  friend,  deprives  them  of  their  chief  bitter- 
ness. I  do  not  know  if  it  be  true,  but  I  understand  that 
the  telegraphic  despatch  to  Walter  for  my  Commission 
was  a  piece  of  sharp  practice  that  did  not  emanate  from 
Gov.  Morgan.  That,  however,  is  a  matter  that  is  past, 
and  hardly,  perhaps,  to  be  regretted. 

Give  my  best  love  to  the  dear  friends  around  you,  and 
believe  me, 

Very  affec'y., 
Your  son, 

W.  T.  Lusk. 


26o  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

New-York,  Dec.  30th,  '62. 
24  West  31   St. 
A/y  own  dear  Son: 

...  I  received  your  very  sad  letter  last  night.  I 
sympathize  sincerely,  and  do  not  wonder  that  you  feel 
sick  and  disheartened.  However,  I  trust  the  spirit  of 
gloom  which  oppressed  you  when  you  wrote,  has  passed 
by,  and  the  brave  spirit  of  my  own  boy  is  aroused  again. 
Never  call  yourself  a  "  despised  soldier."  Neglected 
you  have  been,  and  we  all  feel  it  most  cruelly,  but  "des- 
pised," never. 

No  name  is  mentioned  with  greater  respect  than  yours, 
about  none  is  more  indignation  felt  by  friends  than  about 
you.  Your  career  has  been  a  marked  and  peculiar  one; 
high  titles  now  are  no  mark  of  merit.  Gov.  Buckingham 
said  to  me  in  the  cars  on  my  way  to  New  York,  "  I  want 
a  Colonel  now.  I  know  of  no  one  who  would  fill  the  posi- 
tion half  as  well  as  your  son,  and  yet,  with  the  desire,  I 
cannot  give  it  to  him."  So  it  goes  —  some  town-clerk 
or  petty  lawyer,  having  stayed  at  home  far  from  a  sol- 
dier's dangers,  watches,  waits,  and  the  first  opportunity 
steps  into  the  soldier's  honors.  Mr.  John  Tappan  who 
has  no  particular  friends  in  the  army,  says  he  always 
draws  the  inference  if  a  man  is  promoted,  he  doesn't 
deserve  it  —  he  has  seen  so  few  really  meritorious  officers 
treated  well.  I  think  he  goes  too  far  and  do  not  myself 
wholly  agree  with  him,  still  I  think  there  is  a  great  lack 
of  justice.  ...  It  was  certainly  a  great  piece  of  self- 
sacrifice  in  you  to  sign  a  paper  requesting  the  majority 
to  be  given  to  another,  when  you  knew  it  had  been  prom- 
ised you.  I  admire  the  valor  of  your  regiment,  and,  as 
Elliott  says,  "you  can  refuse  to  fight  a  duel  now,  having 


WAR    LETTERS  261 

fought  in  the  79th. "  ...     I  should    be  extremely  glad 

my  dear  son,  to  sec  you  again  at  your  hooks,  if  you  can 
return  honorahly.  You  say  you  entered  the  army  against 
the  advice  of  your  friends.  Very  true,  my  dear  child, 
God  knows  how  hard  the  struggle  was  to  me,  God  knows 
how  much  I  often  now  endure,  yet  through  everything  I 
feel  comfort,  nay  pride,  that  my  son's  motives  are  pure 
and  conscientious.  Well,  the  New  Year  is  close  at  hand. 
May  it  open  brightly  for  you,  my  own  dear  son.  For 
some  reason  you  have  been  preserved  through  many  and 
great  dangers.  He  who  guarded  has  still  work  for  His 
servant  to  do,  so  be  of  good  cheer,  you  will  not  be  for- 
saken. By-and-by  you  will  look  back  on  your  humilia- 
tions and  say,  "They  were  hard,  but  they  have  done  me 
good."  Beside,  I  can  only  acknowledge  your  disappoint- 
ments. A  soldier,  a  true  man,  is  never  humiliated  by 
the  performance  of  right.  And  yet  your  letter  touched 
a  responsive  chord  which  vibrates  now,  for  through  the 
whole  I  recognize  myself.  May  God  bless  you  my  own 
dear  son,  and  grant  you  His  assistance.  .  .  . 
You  could  not  be  dearer  to  the  heart  of 

Your  lovine 

Mother. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

Dec.  31st,  1862. 

My  dear  Sister  Lilhe: 

I  have  just  received  your  letter,  and  am  much  troubled 
to  hear  that  mother  has  been  ill.  As  you  were  intend- 
ing to  write  me  on  New  Year's  eve,  I  have  concluded 
to  write  you  in  turn,  knowing  it   to  be  all  one,  whether 


262  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

I  write  you  or  mother.  I  am  specially  disposed  to  write 
to-night  as  I  feel  very  good-natured.  I  am  not  troubled 
for  the  moment,  either  with  the  goadings  of  disappointed 
ambition,  the  peculiarities  of  Scotchmen,  the  inclemency 
of  the  weather,  or  even  with  "the  unfortunate  Abraham 
Lincoln."  In  a  word,  I  am  determined  to  be  good- 
humored  in  bidding  farewell  to  the  old  year,  notwith- 
standing it  is  responsible  (either  it,  or  the  aforesaid 
Abraham)  for  so  many  disasters.  If  all  the  hopes  so  fondly 
entertained  at  the  beginning  of  the  year  have  not  been 
realized,  we  know  at  least  that  Providence  doeth  all 
things  well,  if  not  exactly  as  man  would  have  it. 

The  Highlanders  mean  to  celebrate  the  New  Year, 
as  the  accompanying  card  will  show.  Turkeys,  hams, 
tongues,  bread  and  butter  and  a  bowl  of  punch  will  be 
furnished  to  visitors,  and  we  hope  they  may  be  many. 
But  pleasantest  of  all,  Hall  is  coming  to  visit  me,  bring- 
ing with  him  a  Dr.  Hubbard  of  his  regiment  —  an  Uncle 
of  pretty  little  Mary  Chittenden.  If  we  don't  have  a 
good  time,  then  I'll  hang  up  my  sword  on  a  willow  tree, 
but  you  will  have  to  wait  until  the  second  inst.  for  par- 
ticulars. I  had  a  good  time  Christmas  too,  and  only 
regret  you  should  have  spent  it  so  quietly.  You  see  I 
raised  a  pair  of  ducks  and  rode  up  with  them  tied  to  my 
saddle  to  Stafford  C.  H.  (ten  miles),  found  Hall,  eat  the 
ducks  (with  Hall's  assistance),  gossiped,  and  made  very 
merry,  though  I  had  so  recently  written  home  repre- 
senting myself  so  very  miserable.  Yesterday  I  made 
Major  Crosby  of  the  21st  C.  V.  a  visit,  and  found  that 
I  used  to  go  to  school  with  him  to  old  Peltis  up-town. 
We  had  a  right  good  time  of  it.  His  heart  so  warmed 
toward  me  finally,  that  he  brought  out  a  loaf  of  cake  made 
by  his  wife's  fair  fingers — good  cake  it  was  too.     Speaking 


Mary    Hartwell    Chittenden 
Whom   W.  T.  L 


WAR    LETTERS  263 

of  cake  reminds  me  that  the  ( Ihaplain,  my  tent  companion, 
has  just  received  ;i  cake  from  his  sweetheart.  Oh  these 
sweethearts!  Chaplain  receives  every  mail  pretty  pink 
notes  which  he  likes  to  be  joked  about.  1 le  likes  the 
cake  too. 

Hall  thinks  I  have  grown  dreadfully  unrefined.  I 
smoke  a  pipe  and  eat  onions.  Horrible,  isn't  it  ?  Would 
you  really  like  your  brother  at  home,  who  can  do  such 
dreadful  things  ?  I  can't  come.  I've  tried,  hut  Rhad- 
amanthus,  that  is  Old  Bull  Sumner,  is  adamant,  and 
bids  me  wait  until  I  catch  swamp  fever  or  lose  a  leg, 
when  I  will  he  able  to  return  with  flying  colors.  I  tried 
in  fact  to  take  the  Bull  by  the  horns,  and  that's  what  I 
got  for  my  pains.  Dear  me,  I'm  growing  older  every 
day,  so  you  can  imagine  how  old  I  shall  be  when  I  get 
home. 

Well,  sister  Lillie,  I  would  try  and  be  sentimental  in 
view  of  New  Year's  Eve,  but  that  could  hardly  be  looked 
for  in  a  man  that  eats  onions.  But  may  many  blessings 
rest  on  both  my  sisters,  my  mother  and  the  little  ones  that 
are  dear  to  us  all.  True  love  between  you  and  Tom, 
between  Hunt  and  Mary,  deepening  not  weakening  at 
each  successive  return  of  the  New  Year. 

Had  I  my  six  months'  pay,  and  twenty  days  to  spend 
at  home,  how  I  would  make  things  fly  around. 

Again  love  to  mother,  Uncle  Phelps,  Aunt  Maria, 
Nellie,  Tom,  friends  individually,  collectively,  and  in 
bulk. 

AfFec'y.  your  brother, 

Will. 

m 


264  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

24  West  31st  Street, 

Sunday,  Jan.  4th,   1863. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  went  to  hear  Mr.  Prentiss  this  morning,  and  was 
deeply  affected  and  impressed  by  his  New  Year's  ser- 
mon. Thomas  and  Lilly  having  gone  to  church  this 
afternoon,  I  take  advantage  of  this  quiet  hour  to  write  a 
few  words  to  you.  We  are  anxiously  awaiting  the  final 
result  of  the  battle  in  Tennessee.  It  has  involved  another 
fearful  loss  of  life;  another  "army  of  martyrs"  have 
shed  their  blood,  we  trust  Oh,  God!  not  in  vain.  The 
Emancipation  Proclamation  too  has  been  issued,  and  now 
we  wait  for  the  events  which  crowd  so  heavily,  we  trust 
to  a  final  end.  The  Monitor  has  foundered  off  Cape 
Hatteras,  another  calamity  to  mourn  over.  We  take 
victories  as  a  matter  of  course  without  much  elation, 
but  defeats  or  humiliation  in  any  form  we  cannot  bear. 
I  hoped  to  have  received  a  letter  from  you  yesterday  but 
did  not.  Your  last  letter  to  me  was  written  on  the  23d. 
Elliott  told  me  he  heard  that  Col.  Farnsworth  had  re- 
signed. Is  it  true  ?  I  hope  you  approve  of  the  Procla- 
mation. It  seems  to  me  it  strikes  at  the  root  of  the  evil. 
Dr.  Grant  says,  although  it  beggars  his  family  at  the  South, 
he  thinks  it  wise  and  just.  Mr.  Riley  who  was  born  in  a 
slave  country  (S.  A.),  says  he  thinks  it  is  the  first  blow  which 
has  given  much  alarm  to  the  rebels.  There  is  an  idea 
that  it  is  an  obnoxious  measure  to  the  soldiers,  and  those 
hostile  to  the  Administration  foster  the  notion  and 
strive  to  spread  it.  Many  prayers  for  Abraham  Lincoln 
have  been  offered  up  to-day,  that  he  may  be  guided  aright, 
and  having  acted  in  the  fear  of  God,  that  all  other  fears 
may  be    quieted,   and    he  may  be   strengthened   for   his 


WAR   LETTERS  265 

great  responsibilities.  I  heard  .'i  young  man  say,  at  oui 
table  to-day,  thai  democratic  clubs  were  forming  about 
the  city  to  prevent  drafting.  I  heard  anothei  say  that 
Gen.  Dix  had  been  appointed  Military  Govemoi  "I  f lie- 
State  of  New-York.  The  times  are  indeed  turbulent 
and  stormy,  and  none  can  prophecy  as  to  rlie  future,  and 
yet  a  stranger  in  New- York  would  scarcely  believe  that 
we  were  a  nation  struggling  through  appalling  trials. 
The  streets  are  as  gay  as  ever,  public  amusements  as 
much  frequented,  and  our  gayest  shops  are  filled  with 
ladies  spending  money  profusely.  The  hospitals  how- 
ever tell  a  tale  different  indeed. 

5th.  I  have  received  a  letter  this  morning  from  Mary, 
very  bright  and  cheerful.  She  whites:  "Yesterday  was 
quite  a  day  of  rejoicing  here  over  the  President's  Procla- 
mation. The  Mayor  (Lloyd  Greene)  ordered  the  bells 
to  be  rung,  and  cannons  to  be  fired."  Nearly  all  in  this 
house  where  we  are  boarding  are  Southern  people,  or 
Southern  sympathizers.  I  am  very  quiet  and  seldom 
make  any  remark.  A  Baltimore  gentleman  remarked 
to  me  the  other  day,  "I  do  not  believe  you  are  an  Aboli- 
tionist, you  don't  look  like  one."  I  merely  replied  "Ah  ?" 
A  lady  sitting  opposite  me  said  "I  have  seen  the  meanest 
Yankees,  they  are  all  so  mean."  As  she  looked  at  me, 
I  drew  up  and  answered,  "You  are  unfortunate.  I,  on 
the  contrary,  have  met  many  a  noble-hearted  Yankee." 
"Oh!"  said  she,  "so  have  I.  I  was  born  in  New 
England."     So  it  goes. 

Well,  the  morning  is  passing  rapidly  away,  and  I  have 
to  go  down  to  the  Everett  House  to  see  Mrs.  Tyler.  The 
morning  is  charming.  I  hope  you  are  enjoying  it.  Your 
last  letter  was  sad,  it  was  written  with  a  sick  heart,  so  I 
long  anxiously  for  another.     I  do  not  think  an  hour  passes, 


266  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

when  I  am  awake,  that  my  thoughts  are  not  with  you. 
Lilly  unites  with  me  in  dearest  love  to  you.  We  are  all 
so  anxious  to  see  you,  sometimes  I  fancy  I  hear  your  step 
approaching,  but  it  is  only  fancy  after  all. 

Good-bye  my  own  dear  son,  may  God  bless  and  guide 
you. 

Very  lovingly, 

Mother. 
Kind  regards  from  all  to  Dr.  McDonald. 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

Jan.  5th,   1863. 

My  dear  Mother: 

My  letters  seem  very  long  in  reaching  you.  The  one 
I  sent  the  day  before  Christmas,  containing  a  little  money 
which  I  hoped  would  contribute  to  the  children's  happi- 
ness on  New  Year,  had  not  come  to  hand  on  the  31st,  yet 
I  had  hoped  it  might  precede  the  rather  dolorous  docu- 
ment written  only  the  evening  before,  but  which,  of 
course,  wouldn't  be  overtaken.  To  tell  the  truth,  I  was 
not  a  little  ashamed  at  having  been  so  querulous.  I 
do  not  like  the  habit  of  complaining,  and  do  not  mean 
often  to  indulge  in  it,  but  the  best  of  our  guardian  angels 
cannot  always  resist  the  attacks  of  those  emissaries  of 
Satan  —  the    cooks. 

Col.  Farnsworth,  it  is  said,  will  soon  rejoin  his  Regi- 
ment. It  is  still  a  matter  of  doubt  though,  whether  his 
physical  health  will  permit  him  to  remain  long.  Besides 
the  natural  effects  of  his  wound,  he  is  much  paralyzed 
I  understand,  from  severe  neuralgia.  Be  this  as  it  may,  I 
am  very  sorry  for  him,  and  shall  welcome  him  back  with 
pleasure.     Farnsworth,     McDonald     and     myself    enjoy 


WAR   LETTERS  267 

about  an  equal  degree  of  popularity  in  the   Regiment. 

Since  writing  the   last   sentence   my  opinion   has   been 
somewhat  modified  by  the  arrival  of  the  mail.     Fai 

worth  sends  a  certificate  of  disability  looking  for  a  further 
extension  of  his  "leave  of  absence."  'ibis  is  indefen- 
sible. The  law  allows  disabled  officers  two  months  to 
recover.  F.  has  had  four  months  already,  and  looks 
for  a  further  postponement  of  his  return.  I  have  also 
received  your  letter  bearing  date  Jan.  2d,  and  see  how 
much  harm  I  did  by  indulging  in  a  little  fit  of  spleen.  I 
do  not  see  the  slightest  hope  or  prospect  of  either  a  short 
leave  of  absence,  or  of  promotion,  neither  of  which  little 
matters  do  I  intend  shall  disturb  my  equanimity  in  the 
slightest  degree.  To  be  sure  my  associations  are  not 
always  agreeable,  but  when  I  entered  the  service  had  I 
any  reason  to  hope  they  would  be  ?  I  certainly  enjoy 
more  favor  than  any  line  officer  in  the  1st  Division.  This 
ought  to  suffice.  Again  I  am  losing  years  that  ought  to 
be  spent  in  fitting  me  for  my  profession.  Well,  what  of 
that  ?  Shall  I  at  this  late  hour  begin  to  count  the  cost 
of  doing  my  duty  ?  No  mother,  we  both  know  that  this 
matter  must  be  pushed  through  to  the  end.  I  am  not 
of  so  much  value  as  to  complain  of  having  to  bear 
my  part.  To  hear  me  talk,  one  would  suppose  I  was 
the  only  one  who  fancies  himself  unjustly  used.  Bah! 
The  army  is  filled  with  them.  Possibly  twenty  years  hence 
I  shall  be  grumbling  because  my  professional  skill  is  not 
properly  appreciated.  It  is  hard  for  disappointed  men 
to  believe  the  fault  lies  in  themselves.  Yet  such  things 
do  happen.  I  shall  be  obliged  to  postpone  mv  Christ- 
mas remembrances  to  you  until  the  paymaster  (invisible 
now  for  six  months)   shall  visit  us. 

Very  affectionately,  Will. 


268  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va. 

Jan.   16th,   1863. 
My  dear  Mother: 

We  have  orders  to  march  to-morrow.  I  cannot  say 
whether  we  will  positively  do  so,  but  it  is  certainly  in- 
tended that  we  move  very  shortly. 

I  do  not  know  whether  the  movement  is  intended  as 
an  advance,  or  whether  it  is  proposed,  as  was  the  case  a 
couple  of  weeks  ago,  to  fall  back  on  Washington.  It  is 
generally  supposed  that  the  first  will  be  the  case.  I  am 
glad  for  anything  like  a  movement,  and  I  trust  that  this 
time  we  may  have  a  successful  encounter  with  the  enemy. 
But  oh,  I  do  trust  too,  that,  should  I  come  unharmed 
out  of  whatever  dangers  are  before  me,  I  will  be  able 
to  get  out  of  this  Regiment.  I  do  not  want  any  further 
connection  with  foreigners.  I  would  almost  prefer  never 
to  come  out  alive  from  this  campaign,  if  it  is  only  to 
prolong  the  present  disagreeable  associations. 

No  matter  though,  I  am  always  content  when  actually 
in  motion.  The  thought  of  being  really  able  to  contribute 
something,  however  little,  to  the  Cause,  is  then  dominant, 
and  I  can  afford  to  forget  the  more  selfish  feelings  that 
I  cannot  repress  in  camp.  This  letter  must  be  short, 
for  I  am  pressed  for  time. 

Good-bye.  God  bless  you  all.  All  will  be  for  the 
best.     If  we  are  to  fight,  pray  God  to  give  us  victory. 

Affec'y.,  Will. 

The  "Mud  Campaign."     Burnside  succeeded  by  Hooker 

"ygtb  Highlanders"  pp.  268  and  269. 

"Nothing  of  any  importance  occurred  after  the  New  Year  celebration 
till  the  20th.  .  .  .  The  failure  of  the  December  assault  had  not  shaken 


WAR   LL'IThKS  269 

the  faith  of  the  ( Government  in  Burnside's  ability,  and  he  finally  deter* 
mined  on  crossing"  (the  Rappahannock  River)  "by  Bankj'  I  ord,  tome 
five  miles  above  the  city,  with  the  bulk  "I  his  army,  and  attacking  tru 
enemy  in  flank  and  rear,  while  the  Ninth  corps  should  cross  in  from 
of  the  city  and  assault  Marye's  Heights. 

"On  the  morning  of  the  20th,  Franklin'fl  and  Hooker's  troops  began 
their  march  to  the  appointed  rendezvous  .  .  .  But  the  promise  oi  fair 

weather  which  the  morning  gave,  proved  delusive,  for  at  sundown  the 
clouds  began  to  gather,  and  before  midnight  one  of  the  worst  storms 
we  had  ever  experienced  broke  over  us.  I  he  troops  on  the  road  Wt  u- 
obliged  to  endure  the  pitiless  rain  without  shelter,  and  when  morning  of 
the  2lst  broke,  the  mud  was  so  deep  that  it  was  nearly  impossible  to 
move  wagons  or  artillery.  We  had  been  ordered  out  before  day!i 
but  almost  immediately  the  order  was  countermanded  and  we  returned 
to  our  tents.  The  movement  of  troops  was  suspended,  and  later  in  the 
day  came  the  orders  for  them  to  return  to  their  former  quarters;  but  it 
was  several  days  before  the  artillery  could  be  moved.  On  the  22d  the 
rebel  pickets  amused  themselves  at  our  expense,  by  placing  sign-boards 
along  their  bank,  with  the  inscription  '  Burnside  Stuck  in  the  Mud.' 
Thus  began  and  ended  the  'Mud  Campaign.'  .  .  .  This  last  failure 
caused  a  prolonged  howl  from  the  military  critics  of  the  North,  and 
Burnside's  'Mud  Campaign'  was  the  subject  of  jest  for  both  pen 
and  pencil,  from  one  end  of  the  land  to  the  other.  After  the  defeat  of 
December,  Burnside  had  tendered  his  resignation;  it  was  now  renewed, 
but  the  President  preferred  to  retain  his  services  in  the  field,  and  merely 
relieved  him  from  the  command  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  and  placed 
Major-Gen.  Joseph  Hooker  in  that  unenviable  position." 

24  West  31st  Street, 

New- York,  Jan.   18th,  1863. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  hope  my  letters  reach  you  more  regularly  than  yours 
do  me,  for  I  write  faithfully,  and  have  great  pleasure  in 
the  thought  that  my  written  words  keep  vou  connected 
with,  and  interested  in,  the  events  transpiring  at  home. 
A  rumor  was  in  circulation  last  night,  that  the  rebels  had 
crossed  the  Rappahannock  and  that  our  army  were 
fighting  their  way  back  to  Washington.  A  youno;  man 
told  me  also  last  night,  that  a  gentleman  just  arrived  from 
Burnside's  Army,  told  him  it  was  owing  entirely  to  Lee's 


2jo  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

humanity  that  our  forces  escaped  entire  annihilation  after 
the  battle  of  Fredericksburg.  Don't  think  we  credit 
such  absurdities;  I  only  show  how  secession  sympathizers 
spread  reports.  The  story  is  this:  Lee  seeing  the  danger 
of  our  army,  and  being  humane  and  generous,  sent  to 
Burnside,  offering  him  six  hours  to  depart  peacefully, 
which  Burnside  of  course  gladly  accepted.  New- York 
is  full  of  Southern  people  in  full  sympathy  with  the  South, 
bitter  in  word  and  action,  and  my  blood  often  boils  with 
indignation  though  I  keep  usually  a  quiet  tongue.  The 
news  of  our  Western  victories,  and  the  intercepted  rebel 
correspondence,  make  them  rather  more  spicy  than  usual. 
You  will  see  the  disgraceful  proceedings  about  the  elec- 
tion of  a  Speaker  in  Albany.  The  Republicans  behave 
far  better  than  the  Democrats.  Oh!  I  am  sick.  I  have 
been  in  the  house  a  week  with  a  cold,  and  I  long  again 
for  fresh  air  and  freedom..  We  had  a  pleasant  call  yester- 
day from  Abby  and  Carrie  Woolsey.  Their  brother  is 
on  the  staff  of  Gen.  Seth  Williams  who  is  one  of  Burn- 
side's  staff.  Carrie  said  she  should  write  him  to  try  and 
see  you,  as  she  thought  you  might  find  it  pleasant  to 
meet. 

To-morrow  evening  we  are  going  to  meet  a  few  friends 
at  Mrs.  Gilman's.  Mrs.  Perkins  (Tom's  Mother)  is 
there  on  a  visit.  I  am  sorry  you  see  no  hope  of  a  fur- 
lough or  promotion.  I  do  not  know  how  things  progress 
here,  but  I  do  know  Mr.  Phelps  is  still  actively  at  work. 
The  party  in  power  is  somewhat  opposed  to  enlistments, 
or  rather  does  not  encourage  them.  However  the  Military 
Department  will  control  that  matter  I  suppose  in  future. 

Jane  and  Georgie  Woolsey  are  nursing  in  a  hospital 
near  Newport.  A  corps  of  ladies  acting  under  the  direc- 
tion of  the  Surgeon-General,  takes  charge  of  the  depart- 


WAR   LETTERS 


271 


ment  of  the  very  sick,  giving  their  time  and  their  meant 
to   this   noble   object.      Georgie    assisted    a    good    deal    in 

the  Peninsular  Campaign.     It   is  refreshing  to  meet    a 

whole  family  so  devoted  to  one  cause.  Miss  Kitty  Elliott 
wants  to  do  something  of  the  same  kind,  and  if  I  had 
strength  I  would  not  hesitate  for  one  moment,  bur  I  am 
too  nervous  and  good  for  nothing. 

General  McClellan  is  living  in  a  new  house  next  to 
US.  The  house  was  presented  him  by  some  of  his  friends. 
Cousin  Henry  and  Louisa  have  just  been  in  to  tell  me 
that  they  heard  through  Dr.  McDonald  that  you  had 
applied  for  a  furlough  on  the  13th,  and  would  probably 
get  it.  Can  it  be  possible  ?  I  cannot  believe  such  joy 
is  in  store  for  me. 

Good-bye,  God  grant  us  strength  to  bear,  and  thank- 
ful hearts  for  all  his  mercies. 

Very  lovingly, 

Mother. 

79th  Regiment, 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va., 

Jan.  20th,   1863. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Yesterday  I  wrote  Walter  and  was  not  a  little  despon- 
dent; to-day  we  are  told  that  the  auspicious  moment 
has  arrived.  To-morrow  we  are  once  more  to  meet  the 
enemy.  All  gloomy  forebodings  engendered  by  the  idle- 
ness of  camp-life,  have  vanished  before  the  prospect  of 
impending  action.  My  heart  is  as  light  as  a  feather. 
Hope  is  dominant,  and  I  can  think  only  of  the  glorious 
result  if  we  are  victorious.  The  gloom  that  now  rests 
on  our  country  will  be  lifted,  and  I  already  hear  citizens 


272  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

repeating  with  joyous  lips:  '  We  are  victorious.  Not  in 
vain  have  been  our  sacrifices.  We  are  proud  of  the  army 
we  have  created."  Let  then  all  tongues  be  hushed  that 
cannot  join  in  the  glad  paeans  of  victory.  I  will  not  think 
of  defeat.  If  God  is  gracious,  and  granteth  success  to 
our  arms,  let  the  voice  of  selfishness  be  hushed,  let 
there  be  no  house  of  mourning.  Let  even  mothers  say 
we  have  given  gladly  the  dearest  thing  we  possessed  to 
win  the  Nation's  rest.  I  have  borne,  dear  mother,  a 
charmed  life,  heretofore.  Even  when  conversing  with 
comrades  on  the  battlefield,  death  has  singled  them  out, 
and  left  me  unscathed,  left  me  to  witness  the  peril  of  the 
nation.  What  then  if  now  the  charm  be  broken,  and 
my  last  moments  be  cheered  with  the  thought  of  the 
Nation  saved.  Then  let  my  mother  and  those  that  love 
me  rejoice  as  I  would  in  the  full  tide  of  victory.  But 
should  we  triumph,  and  I  live  to  see  the  end,  think  of  the 
rapture  we  all  would  feel,  to  think  that  to  a  poor  worm 
like  me  had  been  vouchsafed  the  terrors  of  death,  and  at 
this  cheap  price,  been  spared  to  view  the  glories  of  sal- 
vation to  our  country.  Then  think  how  sweet  would  be 
mother's  or  sister's  kiss,  or  the  glad  welcome  of  trusted 
friends.  But  living,  or  fallen  among  the  chosen,  I  trust 
if  the  tidings  of  victory  be  heard,  all  who  love  me  will 
wear  their  gayest  colors  and  cheeriest  smiles,  in  the  joy 
at  the  success  of  the  cause  in  which  the  loved  one  re- 
joiced to  risk  his  all.  With  such  parting  words  I  can  go 
without  a  tremor  into  battle,  and  fear  nothing  where  God 
ruleth  Supreme. 

You  remember  a  year  ago  I  wrote  you  I  had  had  my 
likeness  taken.  Yesterday  the  impression  reached  me. 
I  enclose  you  one  now,  and  will  send  you  by  a  convenient 
opportunity  quite  a  number  more.     I  have  grown  a  good 


WAR    LKTTr.RS 


273 


deal  older  since  then,  but  you  must  take  that  for  granted 
until  I  can  find  an  opportunity  to  show  you  how  the 
latest  edition  of  your  son  looks.  1  will  send  lik< 
some  views  of  the  battlefield  of  Antietam,  concerning 
which  I  will  have  strange  stories  to  tell  when  the  war  is 
closed,  and  peace  fairly,  honorably  won. 

Affcc'y.,  Will. 

(W.    E.  Dostf.r  to  W.  T.  Lusk) 

Washington,  Jan.   19th,   1863. 
My  dear  Lusk: 

Yours  was  received  this  morning.  I  spread  myself 
on  the  subject  of  unrequited  merit  accordingly  and  went 
in  person  to  the  War  Department.  Asst.  Secy.  Watson 
promised  to  let  me  have  it  to-morrow,  but  as  you  are 
impatient  I  write  to-night.  Of  course  it  must  receive 
the  approbation  of  Stanton  also,  but  altogether  you  have 
good  reason  to  hope. 

Very  truly, 

Meanwhile, 

Doster. 

79th  Highlanders, 

Camp  near  Falmouth,  Va., 

-      Jan.  27th,   1863. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  have  not  written  either  you  or  other  friends  to  whom 
I  am  indebted  in  an  epistolary,  for  some  little  time  past, 
because  I  sincerely  cherished  the  hope  that  a  short  leave 
of  absence  was  at  length  about  to  be  granted  me.  As 
a  last  card  I  wrote  to  Doster  to  try  what  he  could  do 
for  me  in  Washington.     I  immediatelv  received   a  reply 


274 


AMLLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 


from  him  to  the  effect  that  he  had  applied  to  the  War 
Department  and  that  I  might  hope  for  the  coveted  "leave" 
the  next  day.  That  was  more  than  a  week  ago,  so  I  sup- 
pose I  have  had  my  usual  ill-luck,  and  have  nothing  more 
to  hope  for.  Morrison  becomes  more  affable  and  an- 
noying every  day.  He  cannot  forgive  me  the  fright  I 
gave  him  in  regard  to  the  Majority.  Fear  of  American 
influence  in  the  Regiment  is  his  great  Bug-a-boo.  He 
watches  me  like  a  cat,  and  I  suppose  will  catch  me  at 
something  one  of  these  days,  which  will  serve  as  a  pre- 
text for  disgracing  me.  Then  he  will  talk  hypocritically 
of  his  great  regard  and  fondness  for  me,  but  that  he  is  a 
soldier  and  must  do  his  duty.  Nothing  can  exceed  the 
sweetness  and  amiability  of  the  gentleman  toward  those 
he  particularly  dislikes.  Bah!  Why  should  I  trouble  you 
with  these  things  ?  I  do  not  doubt  that  at  best  your  own 
fond  fears  make  things  out  much  worse  than  they  really 
are.  I  hope  I  may  soon  see  Sam  here.  He  wrote  me  he 
intended  running  down.  I  should  feel  delighted  to  see 
him. 

I  wish  I  could  ascertain  something  positive  regarding 
the  new  Regiment.  If  it  is  not  going  to  succeed,  I  would 
try  and  get  something  in  the  line  of  my  profession  pro- 
vided for  me.  However  I  hate  to  back  down,  as  I  re- 
solved at  the  outset  that,  for  the  period  of  the  war,  I 
would  serve  in  any  capacity  Providence  might  find  best, 
only  reserving  my  intention  to  induce  Providence  to  be 
as  pliable  as  possible. 

Joe  Hooker  commands  the  army  of  the  Potomac. 
Everybody  appears  entirely  indifferent  to  the  matter. 
Heroes  of  many  defeats,  we  are  not  inclined  to  give 
gratuitous  confidence  to  anyone.  Whoever  finally  suc- 
ceeds any  better  than  McClellan  did,  has  a  fine  chance 


WAR  LETTERS  275 

for  immortality.    The  army  of  the  Potomac  is  splendid 

in  material,  and  once  taught  that  theil  best  efforts  arc- 
not  to  be  wasted,  they  will  tell  for  them  elves  .1  splen- 
did story.  With  McCIellan  they  did  best,  because  they 
believed  that  his  plans  contained  all  that  human  '.kill  was 
capable  of.  Every  new  General  will  be  splendidly  sup- 
ported in  his  first  battle.  If  the  battle  end  in  another 
Golgotha,  the  old  cry  will  be  raised,  "MeCIellan,  or  a 
new  man!"  Sumner  and  Franklin,  piqued,  it  is  reported 
are  about  to  withdraw  likewise.  So,  peaceful  revolu- 
tions are  occurring  in  the  Army.  Let  us  pray,  and  hope  for 
the  best.  Possibly  we  are  adopting  the  right  course  to 
find  the  right  man,  possibly  the  right  course  to  insure 
our  ruin.  If  Burnside  was  not  a  Napoleon,  he  was  a 
first-rate  soldier,  and  in  a  subordinate  position  can  do 
splendid   service  to  the  country.     Alas!     Good-bye. 

AfFec'y.,  Will. 

(W.  E.  Doster  to  W.  T.  Lusk) 
Headquarters  Provost  Marshal's  Office 

Washington,  Jan.  27th,  1863. 

My  dear  Lusk: 

I  have  received  yours  of  Jan."  24th  and  gone  to  see 
Stanton  about  it  for  the  third  time.  He  answers  that 
until  it  is  certain  that  the  army  is  not  going  to  move,  he 
cannot  give  you  leave,  but  that  you  deserve  one,  of  all 
officers,  and  that  in  three  or  four  days  he  will  know 
whether  you  can  be  spared.  So  cheer  up  old  fellow, 
I'll  hang  on  and  make  life  a  ...  to  him  until  he 
does.    .    .    .    (Cortier  of  letter  torn  off) 

Very  truly, 

W.  E.  Doster. 


276  WILLIAM  THOMPSON  LUSK 

(Ethan  Allen  to  I.  N.  Phelps) 

New- York,  Jan.  27th,  1863. 
Mr.  I.  N.  Phelps 
Dear  Sir: 
I  am  not  only  willing,  but  anxious  to  secure  the  services 
of  Capt.  W.  T.  Lusk  of  the  79th  Regiment,  as  Lt.-Col.  of 
the   Regiment    I    am   now   organizing    in   this   city.       It 
not  being  my  design  to  lead  the  Regt.  when  raised,   I 
appoint  Capt.  Lusk  with  the  view  of  his  ultimately  com- 
manding the   Regiment  which    I   think   bids   fair   to   be 
completed   at  no  very  distant  day.     If  Capt.   Lusk  can 
be  relieved  from  his  present  duties  in  the  army,  and  be 
permitted  to  fill  the  position   in  which  it  is  my  desire  to 
place  him,  I  am  sure  the  change  will  be  of  service  both 
to  himself  and  to  the  country. 

Your  obedient  servant, 

Ethan  Allen, 
Colonel  Blair  Light  Infantry,  3a1  Regt., 

Merchants  Brigade. 

New- York,  Jan.  29th,  1863. 
My  own  dear  Son: 

I  enclose  a  copy  of  a  letter  received  by  your  Uncle 
Phelps  from  Col.  Allen.  Mr.  Phelps  has  been  so  good, 
so  kind,  so  faithful  to  you  and  your  interests,  I  can 
scarcely  feel  grateful  enough.  Now,  he  wishes  me  to 
lay  before  you  the  following  facts  for  your  consideration, 
and  as  a  guide  for  your  decision.  Col.  Allen  says  he 
has  recruited  about  three  hundred  men,  but  owing  to 
desertions  he  has  only  one  hundred  and  fifty  in  camp, 
with  the  promise  of  two  hundred  more  recruited  by 
someone  else,  whom  he  may  or  may  not  receive.  After 
receiving  this  letter  Mr.  Phelps  went  to  Ex-Gov.  Morgan 


WAR   LETTERS  277 

who  is  in  the  city,  and  requested  him  to  write  and  .r.k 
Gov.  Seymour  to  grant  a  furlough.  Gov.  M.  said  it 
would  be  of  no  use,  as  Gov.  S.  had  no  power;  it  was  for 
him  to  give  Commissions,  and  the  War  Department  to 

make  transfers.  He  (Gov.  M.)  however  instructed  his 
Secretary  to  write   Col.    Farnsworth    requesting   him   to 

make  an  application,  or  assist  you  all  in  his  power 
to  get  a  furlough.  The  Gov.  didn't  know  as  the  Regt. 
could  he  raised,  and  if  it  were,  Gov.  S.  might  perhaps 
appoint  another  Col.,  and  he  was  so  desponding  that 
Mr.  Phelps  who  had  felt  elated  at  your  prospects,  was 
so  disappointed  that  he  said  to  me,  "I  could  have  cried." 
Then,  Mr.  Phelps  met  Mr.  S.  B.  Chittenden  who  said  to 
him,  "From  all  I  hear  of  the  talents  of  this  young  man, 
I  think  in  the  reorganization  of  the  Army  he  will  be  pro- 
moted, which  will  be  better  than  being  troubled  with  this 
new  Regt."  So  you  perceive,  Mr.  Phelps  having  your 
interests  so  near  his  heart,  scarcely  knows  how  to  advise, 
except  to  get  a  furlough  if  possible,  come  on,  judge  for 
yourself,  and  make  your  own  decision.  Col.  Allen  says, 
every  day  almost,  ten  or  fifteen  apply  at  his  office,  but 
finding  they  are  not  authorized  to  give  bounties,  refuse 
to  enlist.  There  is  a  bill  now  before  the  U.  S.  Senate 
for  the  encouragement  of  enlistments,  offering  bounties. 
I  have  told  all  these  facts,  and  now  leave  the  matter  to 
your  consideration.  If  you  wish  the  Lt. -Colonelcy,  I  sup- 
pose you  can  have  it  at  any  time.  Your  own  military 
experience  makes  you  the  most  competent  judge.  Col. 
Allen  wants  you,  and  he  thinks  if  bounties  are  offered, 
the  Regt.  will  be  full  in  four  weeks.  I  cannot  advise, 
but  I  pray  God  to  guide  you  aright.  God  bless  you  my 
own  dear  son.     Always, 

Very  Lovingly,  Mother. 


278  WILLIAM  THOMPSON   LUSK 

There  are  others  pressing  for  the  Lt.-Colonelcy,  so  as 
soon  as  you  decide  you  had  better  write  to  your  Uncle 
Phelps.  Mayor  Opdyke  has  a  friend,  somebody  else,  one 
of  the  Military  Committee,  also  has  a  friend,  but  Col. 
Allen  prefers  you  if  you  choose  to  accept. 

[Regarding  a  Furlough  for  Capt.  Lusk,  on  his 
being  tendered  the  lleut.-colonelcy  of  the 
Blair  Light  Infantry] 

54   &  56  Exchange  Place, 

New- York,  Jan.  28th,  1863. 

Col.  Addison  Farnsworth, 
Brooklyn. 

Colonel: 

The  Lieutenant-Colonelcy  of  a  regiment  of  N.  Y.  S. 
Volunteers  now  in  process  of  organization  has,  I  am  in- 
formed, been  tendered  to  Capt.  Lusk  of  the  79th. 

Before  resigning  his  position  in  the  79th,  Capt.  Lusk 
desires  to  visit  New- York  for  the  purpose  of  ascertaining 
what  the  prospects  of  the  completion  of  the  new  regiment 
are,  and,  therefore,  desires  a  furlough  for  a  few  days. 
If  it  is  in  your  power  to  grant  him  leave  of  absence  I 
shall  be  pleased  to  have  you  do  so.  If  you  have  not  the 
power,  please  forward  this  application  to  the  proper 
officer  and  oblige, 

Yours  respectfully, 

Eo  Do  Morgan. 


WAR   LETTERS  279 

Brooklyn,  N.  Y.  Jan.  31st,  1863. 
Respectfully  referred  to  Lt.-Col.  Mom, on  commanding 
79th  N.  Y.  V.  with  the  request  that,  inasmuch  asCapt. 
Lusk  has  been  tendered  the  position  of  Lt.-Col.  of  a 
regiment  now  organizing,  he  will  favorably  endorse  an 
application  for  that  officer  for  a  leave  of  absence. 

A.  Farnsworth, 

Col.  7gtb  N.  T.  V. 

[Request  of  William  C.  H.  Waddell,  John  J.  Cisco, 
and  Colonel  A.  Farnsworth,  that  Capt.  Wil- 
liam T.  Lusk  of  the  79TH  Highlanders  be 
Granted  leave  of  Absence  with  a  View  of 
his  Attaining  Command  of  Col.  Allen's  Regi- 
ment] 

New- York,  Jan.  31st,   1863. 

Governor  desires  that  General  Sprague  will  reply  to 
this  note. 


His  Ex'cy.  Horatio  Seymour, 

Governor  of  the  State  of  New- York,   &c,   &c. 
Sir: 

A  regiment  of  infantry  is  now  being  organized  in  this 
neighborhood  under  the  temporary  command  of  Col. 
Ethan  Allen.  It  is  deemed  desirable  that  Capt.  Wm.  T. 
Lusk  of  the  79th  Highlanders  (now  in  the  field  from  this 
State)  should  obtain  a  leave  of  absence  with  a  view  of 
his  attaining  the  Command  of  this  Re^t.,  Col.  Allen 
wishing  to  retire.  We  are  anxious  at  the  request  of  the 
friends  of  Capt.  Lusk, who  is  a  very  deserving  and  meri- 
torious officer,  to  procure  him  a  leave  of  absence  for  a 


28o  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

limited  period  from  his  present  position,   and   beg  your 
Excellency  to  aid  us  in  an  application  to  the  War  Depart- 
ment  towards   the    accomplishment   of  that    end.     This 
is  also  at  Col.*  Allen's  request. 
With  high  regard,  we  are, 

Your  Obt.  Servants, 

Wm.  Coventry  H.  Waddell. 

*  Ethan  Allen,  Colonel. 

I  fully  concur  in  the  recommendation  of  Mr.  Waddell. 

John  J.  Cisco. 

As  Capt.  Lusk  has  been  tendered  the  position  of  Lieut.- 

Colonel  of  a  regiment  now  organizing  in  this  State,  his 

presence  here  is  desirable.     I   sincerely  hope,  therefore, 

that  he  may  be  granted  a  leave  of  absence. 

A.  Farnsworth,* 

Coi.  79th  n.  r.  v. 

*  Col.  F.  is  absent  from   his   Regt.  at   present  in  consequence  of   a  wound   and    ill 
health. 

Respectfully  transmitted  to  the  Adjutant-General  with 
a  request  that,  if  consistent,  a  leave  of  absence  may  be 
granted  for  the  purpose  mentioned. 
Hd.  Qrs.  Albany,  N.  Y. 
Feb.  8th,   1863. 

I.  T.  Sprague,  A djt. -General. 
A.  G.  Office.  Feby.  nth,  1863. 
(636.  V.  4)  Respectfully  returned  to  the  Governor  of 
New- York.  The  rules  of  the  Dept.  do  not  admit  of  the 
leave  being  granted.  When  the  Command  is  organized, 
this  officer  will  be  discharged  for  promotion,  if  the  request 
be  then  made  by  the  Governor. 

By  order  of  the  Sec'y-  of  War, 
Thomas  M.  Vincent, 

Asst.  Adjt.-Genl. 


war  letters  281 

[Request  for  a  Pass  from  the  Secretary  of  War, 
Permitting   Lt.-Col.   Lusk  to   Return  to  the 

SCENK    OK    CoNFI.ICi] 

Office  of  the  District  Attorney  of  the  United 
States,  for  the  Southern  District  of  New- 
York. 

N  i:\v-York,  May  4th,   1863. 
Honorable  Montgomery  Blaik, 

My  dear  Sir: 
This  will  introduce  to  you  Wm.  T.  Lusk,  Lt.-Col.  of 
the  "Blair  Light  Infantry"  now  organizing  in  this  city. 
Col.  Lusk  can't  rest  easily  here  while  the  battle  is  raging 
around  Fredericksburg.  He  therefore  desires  to  reach 
the  battlefield,  that  he  may  tender  his  services  as  Volunteer 
Aide.,  so  long  as  active  operations  continue,  and  then  re- 
turn to  his  duties  here.  With  this  motive,  he  desires  a 
pass  from  the  Sec.  of  War,  to  the  scene  of  conflict.  Col. 
Lusk  has  been  two  years  in  service,  was  for  a  long  time 
Aide  to  the  late  Gen.  Stevens,  has  been  in  many  battles, 
and  I  believe  he  loves  to  fight.  He  is  a  gentleman  in 
character  and  culture,  and  a  soldier  by  practice  and 
experience.  If  you  can  aid  him  to  obtain  the  pass  he 
desires,  I  shall  be  very  much  obliged. 
Respectfully, 

Your  Obedient  Servant, 

Ethan  Allex. 

Mr.  Watson  would  oblige  me  by  favoring  the  wishes 
of  Col.  Lusk. 

Truly, 

M.  Blair. 
P.  H.  Watson, 


282  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

Coleman's  Eutaw  House, 

Baltimore,  June  19th,  1863. 
My  dear  Mother: 

Here  I  am  in  Baltimore  in  safety,  neither  able  to  go 
forward,  nor  willing  to  turn  back.  As  yet,  all  communi- 
cation with  Harper's  Ferry  is  cut  ofF,  but  the  position 
Hooker  now  occupies  is  such  as  will  enable  him  soon  to 
include  the  Ferry  within  his  lines,  so  I  am  stopping  quietly 
at  the  Eutaw  House,  but  almost  momentarily  expecting 
to  hear  from  Col.  Piatt  that  the  cars  will  once  more  be 
in  running  order.  Probably  this  will  be  before  the  day 
is  over,  and  I  trust  I  may  be  able  to  be  of  some  use.  Don't 
be  alarmed  though,  I  am  not  going  to  attempt  anything 
Quixotic,  so,  if  the  opportunity  does  not  soon  come  I 
shall  return,  and  proceed  to  Simsbury. 

I  have  nothing  special  to  say,  beyond  wishing  to  set 
your  mind  at  rest.  The  7th  Regiment  arrived  here  yes- 
terday, and  makes  a  fine  appearance.  Will  soon  write  a 
more  interesting  letter,  to  be  dated  either  from  Maryland 
Heights  or  Simsbury. 

Good-bye.     Love  to  all. 

Very  affec'y., 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

Maryland  Heights,  June  20th,  1863. 

My  dear  Mother: 

I  left  Baltimore  this  morning  in  company  with  Mr. 
Starkweather  (who  will  bring  you  this)  and  Dr.  Carlton, 
formerly  of  the  18th  C.  V.  The  cars  took  us  as  far  as 
the  Point  of  Rocks,  and  from  there  we  were  obliged  to 
proceed  afoot.  Frightful  stories  of  rebel  cavalry  along 
the  route  were  prevalent,  but  we  reached  Harper's  Ferry 
in  safety,  finding  that  the  only  dangers  were  those  con- 


WAR   LETTERS  183 

jurcd  up  by  the  foolish  fears  of  some  of  Milroy's  scared 
troops.  The  distance  from  the  Point  of  Rockfl  was  about 
twelve  miles,  so  I  feel  a  little  tired  to-night.  J  he  ( ••  tl(  ral 
gave  me  a  most  cordial  welcome  and  assured  me  my 
services  could  be  of  great  use.  I  am  to  be  installed  ai 
once  into  my  old  position  of  A.  A.  General,  and  trust  I 
may  be  able  to  perform  the  duties  of  the  position  satis- 
factorily. Ned  looks  well  and  finds  plenty  to  do.  I  have 
never  seen  General  Tyler  looking  in  better  health.  I 
think  the  responsibility  imposed  upon  him  does  him  good. 
He  has  been  doing  a  great  deal  since  here,  and  feels  happy 
at  really  accomplishing  something  more  congenial  than 
attending  courts-martial.  I  am  well,  doing  first  rate, 
and  am  very  glad  to  serve  at  this  time.  Have  not  been 
here  long  enough  to  understand  much  about  the  military 
aspect  of  affairs. 

Most  affec'y., 

Will. 

"War  of  the  Rebellion;'   Series   I,    Vol.   XXVII. 

Official  Records  of  the  Union  and  Confederate  Armies.    Part  II.    Page  24.. 

Record  of  Brigadier-General  Dan.  Tyler. 

Headquarters,  Maryland  Heights,  June  19,  1863. 

"From  information  gleaned  from  the  country  people  and  our  scouts, 
no  force  exceeding  8,000  to  10,000  men  had  crossed  the  Potomac.  Mary- 
land Heights  is  now  good  against  this  force.  Lieutenant-Colonel  Wm.  T. 
Lusk,  formerly  aide-de-camp  to  Major-General  Stevens,  having  heard 
that  I  was  at  Maryland  Heights  and  without  any  staff,  left  New-York 
on  the  14th  instant,  and  arrived  at  Maryland  Heights  at  6  p.m.  on  the 
loth  instant,  having  walked  from  Point  of  Rocks,  and  offered  his  ser- 
vices as  a  volunteer  aide-de-camp,  or  for  any  other  post  where  he  could 
render  any  service.  The  arrival  of  Lieutenant-Colonel  Lusk  was  very 
opportune,  as  he  had  experience  as  a  staff  officer,  having  been  at  Port 
Royal  and  in  Virginia  on  the  staff  of  Major-General  Stevens  up  to  that 
officer's  death,  and  will  enable  me  to  relieve  Captain  Woodhull  whom 


284  WILLIAM    THOMPSON   LUSK 

I  borrowed  from  Major-General  Schenck's  staff,  and  whom  the  General 
has  telegraphed  to  return  to  him  as  soon  as  possible.  I  shall  recom- 
mend Lieutenant-Colonel  Lusk  for  the  appointment  of  Assistant  Ad- 
jutant-General, which,  in  the  expectation  of  active  service,  he  is  willing 
to  accept  until  the  campaign  is  finished,  and  from  necessity  shall  put  him 
on  duty  accordingly." 

[After  the  Battle  of  Gettysburg  (July  i,  2,  and 
3,  1863)  and  the  Surrender  of  Vicksburg 
(July  4,   1863)] 

Headquarters  Delaware  Department, 

Wilmington,  Del.,  July  7th,  1863. 

Dear,  dear  Cousin  Lou: 

I  said  I  would  write  you  so  soon  as  the  full  purport  of 
the  o-ood  news  was  ascertained.  And  now  that  it  has  all 
broken  upon  us,  although  my  heels  are  where  my  head 
ought  to  be,  I  will  try  and  fulfil  my  engagement  as  co- 
herently as  possible.  We  have  had  the  dark  hour.  The 
dawn  has  broken,  and  the  collapsed  confederacy  has  no 
place  where  it  can  hide  its  head.  Bells  are  ringing  wildly 
all  over  the  city.  Citizens  grin  at  one  another  with  fairly 
idiotic  delight.  One  is  on  the  top  of  his  house  frantically 
swinging  a  dinner  bell,  contributing  thus  his  share  of 
patriotic  clamor  to  the  general  ding-dong.  Bully  for 
him!  How  I  envy  the  heroes  of  Meade's  Army.  It  would 
be  worth  while  to  die,  in  order  that  one's  friends  might 
say,  "He  died  at  Gettysburg."  But  to  live  to  hear 
all  the  good  news,  and  now  to  learn  that  Vicksburg  has 
surrendered,  is  a  little  too  much  happiness  for  poor  mortal 
men.  I  can  laugh,  I  can  cry  with  joy.  All  hysterical 
nonsense  is  pardonable  now.  Manassas,  twice  repeated, 
Fredericksburg  and  Chickahominy!  Bless  them  as  the 
cruel  training  that  has  made  us  learn  our  duties  to  our 
country.     Slavery  has   fallen,  and    I    believe   Heaven    as 


WAR    LETTERS  285 

well  as  earth  rejoices.  Providence  has  tenderly  ren 
that  grand  old  hero,  Jackson,  before  the  Mow  came,  thai 
the  one  good,  earnest,  misguided  mail  might  be  .pared  the 
sight  of  tlie  downfall  of  a  cause  fanaticism  led  him  to 
believe  was  right.  Slink  away  ye  copperheads  to  your 
native  slime,  and  there  await  until  in  Hell  is  ready  the 
place  your  master  has  prepared  for  you!  There,  Oh 
Fernando,  go  reign  in  torment  to  all  eternity!  These 
enthusiastic  citizens  of  Wilmington,  not  content  with 
bell-ringing,  have  taken  to  firing  cannon,  and  the  boys,  to 
help  matters,  are  discharging  pistols  into  empty  barrels. 
The  people  in  a  little  semi-slaveholding  State,  when  not 
downright  traitors,  are  noisily,  obstreperously  loyal,  to  a 
degree  that  New  England  can  hardly  conceive  of.  My 
letter  must  be  short  and  jubilant,  I  cannot  do  anything 
long  to-day. 

Just  dance  through  the  house  for  me,  and  kiss  every 
one  you  meet.     So  I  feel  now.     Good-bye. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

Headquarters  Delaware  Department, 

Wilmington,  Del.,  July  10th,  1863. 
My  dear  Mother: 

I  know  I  ought  to  be  thankful  in  my  present  pleasant 
position,  but  somehow  or  other  I  was  not  born  to  enjoy 
sinecures.  Doing  nothing  makes  me  very  fretful.  I  had 
a  capital  good  time  while  on  Maryland  Heights,  feeling 
well  repaid  for  my  trip  thither,  but  after  leaving,  I  have 
been  bored  to  death  with  the  ennui  of  citv  soldiering. 
To  be  sure  we  are  feted,  and  take  our  places  among  the 
Princes  of  Delaware,  still,  mv  dear  mother,  it  was  not 
for  this  I  left  home,  and  I  cannot,  with  all  the  idle  time 


286  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

on  my  hands,  avoid  regretting  the  pleasant  summer  plans 
we  had  arranged  in  old  Conn.  It  is  six  years  since  I 
have  strolled  about  the  streets  of  Norwich  the  whole 
summer  long.  Norwich  was  never  more  beautiful  than 
now.  So  I  suppose  I  feel  disappointed  at  being  so  peace- 
fully employed  at  the  seat  of  war.  Still  here  we  are, 
General  and  Staff — persons  of  distinction — Ahem!  I 
am  on  hand  in  case  I  am  called  for.  I  don't  owe  my 
position  to  Gov.  Buckingham,  and  I  expect  to  get  home 
to  my  studies  in  the  fall.  Good  things,  all  of  them! 
Besides  this,  I  am  raising  whiskers.  I  am  reading  King- 
lake's  "Crimea."  I  have  given  up  smoking.  Think  of 
that!  You  see,  at  first,  when  I  found  there  was  little  to  do, 
I  smoked  vigorously  to  pass  away  time.  But  when  the 
cigar  was  smoked,  there  was  an  end  to  the  amusement,  so 
I  then  determined  to  break  off  smoking  altogether,  and,  to 
make  it  exciting,  I  kept  a  handful  of  cigars  in  my  pocket 
so  that  the  temptation  might  be  frequently  incurred. 
Whenever  I  longed  for  a  fragrant  Havana,  I  would  take 
one  in  fingers,  and  then  sitting  back  in  my  chair,  reason 
philosophically  on  the  pernicious  effects  of  tobacco.  On 
reaching  the  point  of  conviction,  I  would  return  it  to  my 
pocket  unlighted.  This,  you  see,  has  afforded  me  a  very 
excellent  pastime. 

Occasionally  Bishop  Lee's  benignant  face  shines  upon 
us.  Everyone  worships  the  Bishop  here,  and  how  he 
deserves  it,  you  know  well. 

Am  very  sorry  for  Capt.  Nichols.  The  opposition  is  a 
mistake.  However  I  should  as  soon  think  of  breaking 
my  heart  for  a  Bedlamite  Hag,  as  for  one  who  rejected 
me  on  the  grounds  of  prudence.  So  perhaps  Nichols 
is  not  so  unlucky  as  he  thinks  himself.  Now  that  I  have 
practically  abandoned  military  life,  I  have  a  fancy  Gov. 


WAR   LETTERS  2X7 

Buckingham  made  a  mistake  in  persistently  ignoring  my 

claims  to  promotion.  I  fancy  I  WOUIO  have  done  him 
more  credit  than  some  of  his  appointments.  I  his  may 
be  vanity. 

Written  in  haste  with 

affectionate  intent, 

W.  T.  Lusk. 

[The   Draft  Riots   in  New- York   City] 

Longview,  Enfield,  Conn., 

July  14th,   1863. 
My  own  dear  Sou: 

I  received  your  last  letter  on  Saturday,  and  rejoice  in 
your  health,  and  in  your  resolve  to  relinquish  the  use  of 
tobacco.  I  have  no  doubt  your  flesh  will  increase,  and 
that  you  will  be  benefitted  by  the  change. 

The  terrible  riot  in  New- York  is  at  present  engrossing 
our  thoughts.  The  blacks  seem  to  be  peculiarly  obnoxious 
to  the  excited  mob;  I  suppose  you  have  seen  that  they 
have  burned  the  Colored  Orphan  Asylum.  The  draft 
commenced  yesterday  in  Hartford.  All  was  quiet  through 
the  day,  but  some  anxiety  seems  to  be  felt  lest  the  example 
of  New- York  may  produce  an  evil  effect  to-day.  They 
have  tried  to  obtain  a  few  companies  of  Regulars  to  pre- 
serve order  (from  New  Haven)  but  they  cannot  be  spared. 
Aunt  Sarah,  Nellie  and  Tom  were  to  return  to  New7- York 
to-day,  but  they  dare  not  until  the  disturbance  is  quelled. 
The  telegraph  wires  are  all  cut,  and  I  fear  we  shall  have 
no  papers.  The  Times  and  Tribune  offices  are  torn  to 
pieces.  We  are  all  sad  enough.  God  is  merciful,  may 
He  speedily  help  us,  and  deliver  us  from  our  troubles. 

Cousin  Henry  is  wishing  for,  and  looking  for,  a  Die- 


2S8  WILLIAM    THOMPSON   LUSK 

tator,  the  sooner  the  better.  Capt.  Nichols  has  gone  to 
Vicksburg  with  Col.  McKaye,  to  inquire  into  the  con- 
dition of  the  Freedmen.  You  have  no  idea  how  unreason- 
able the  lower  class  (of  Irish  particularly)  are  in  this 
vicinity.  Their  feelings  have  been  so  wrought  upon  by 
unprincipled  men.  The  leader  in  the  N.  Y.  riot  was  a 
man  from  Virginia,  who  harangued  the  multitude  and 
counselled  resistance. 

A  telegram  has  just  arrived  from  your  Uncle  Phelps 
at  Saratoga,  saying  Nellie  and  Aunt  Sarah  must  not  return 
to-day.  Dr.  Grant  leaves  in  ten  minutes,  so  good-bye. 
A  longer  letter  next  time.  God  guard  you,  my  own  dear, 
dear  son,  is  my  constant  prayer.     All  send  love,  and  I  am 

Always 

Your  loving 

Mother. 

The  Draft  Riots  in  New- York  City 

"  The  Memorial  History  of  the  City  of  New-York,"    Vol.  Ill,  p.  502. 

"The  morning  of  Saturday,  July  nth,  1863,  had  been  selected  for 
the  commencement  of  the  draft  in  the  city,  and  the  day  passed  with- 
out much  interference  with  the  officers  charged  with  its  supervision; 
and  the  local  authorities  felt  encouraged  to  think  that  the  remainder  of 
the  work  would  be  completed  without  serious  opposition.  The  follow- 
ing day,  being  Sunday,  was  undoubtedly  seized  by  those  intent  upon 
obstructing  the  provost-marshals  in  the  discharge  of  their  duty,  to  foment 
trouble  among  the  ignorant  or  reckless  element  that  abounds  in  every 
large  city.  On  Monday  morning  a  few  policemen  were  sent  to  the  en- 
rolling-offices  at  677  Third  Avenue  and  at  11  go  Broadway.  At  the  last 
named  place  the  mystic  wheel  was  set  in  motion,  and  the  drawing  of 
names  was  continued  without  interruption  until  noon,  when  the  provost- 
marshals  suspended  operations  as  a  measure  of  precaution.  Up  to  ten 
o'clock  in  the  morning  the  city  had  been  comparatively  quiet.  At  that 
hour  Superintendent  Kennedy,  while  upon  a  tour  of  inspection,  without 
escort,  and  in  plain  clothes,  was  attacked  by  a  mob  at  the  corner  of  46th 
St.  and  Lexington  Ave.,  and,  after  being  severely  beaten,  barely  escaped 
with  his  life.  .  .  .  He  was  disabled  for  some  days,  and  the  immediate 
command  of  the  police  devolved  upon  Mr.  Acton.  .  .  .  The  entire  police 


WAR   LETTERS  289 

force  of  the  city  had  now  been  assembled  at  its  respective  nation  houses, 

and  for  the  next  three  days  was  constantly  employed   in   Stamping  OU1 

the  sparks  of  insurrection  which  wen-  (lying  about,  and  al  hum',  break* 
ing  out  into  sheds  of  flame  1  liar  threatened  the  existence  ol  the  <  ity. 

From  the  Cooper  Institute  to  46th  Strict,  Third  Avenue  was  blai  k  with 
human  beings  who  hung  ovei  thi  1  avi  s  ol  thi  buildings,  filled  the  d 

and  windows,  and  packed  the  Street  from  curb  i"  curb.  Small  bodies 
of  police  were  driven  away  or  trampled  under  foot,  bouses  were  fired, 
stores  looted,  and  a  very  carnival  of  Clime  inaugurated.  Negroes  be- 
came especially  obnoxious,  and  neither  age  nor  sex  was  regarded  by  the 
white  brutes  in  slaking  their  thirst  for  blood;  from  every  lamp-post 
were  suspended  the  victims  ol  their  blind  fury.  With  one  accord  several 
thousand  rioters  swooped  down  upon  the  Colored  Orphan  Asylum,  then 
occupying  the  space  from  43d  to  44th  street  on  I'ifrh  Ave.  The  two 
hundred  helpless  children  were  hurriedly  removed  by  a  rear  door  while 
the  mob  rushed  in  at  the  front;  the  torch  was  applied  in  twenty  places 
at  once,  and  despite  the  heroic  efforts  of  Chief  Engineer  Decker  and  other 
firemen  to  save  the  structure,  it  was  burned  to  the  ground." 

Page  503.  "  Mayor  Opdyke  called  for  troops  upon  Gen.  Wool,  com- 
manding the  Department  of  the  East,  and  Gen.  Sandford,  commanding 
the  National  Guard." 

Page  504.  "The  second  and  third  days  were  marked  by  fresh  out- 
bursts and  much  bloodshed:  bayonets  and  bullets  were  substituted  for 
policemen's  billies.  The  territory  of  the  disturbance  had  extended  to 
Harlem,  and  westward  beyond  Sixth  Avenue.  Evidences  of  able  leader- 
ship among  the  bands  of  marauders  were  visible.  The  roofs  of  houses  be- 
came vantage-ground  from  which  stones  were  hurled  and  shots  fired  at 
the  police  and  troops  in  sight.  .  .  .  Orders  were  issued  to  the  Seventh 
and  other  city  regiments  to  return  home.  .  .  .  But  the  admirable  arrange- 
ments of  General  Brown  and  President  Acton,  and  the  excellent  dis- 
cipline of  the  force  under  their  direction,  finally  prevailed  against  the 
unorganized  army  of  anarchy  and  misrule,  and  by  midnight  of  the  third 
day  the  wires  reported  'all  quiet.'  The  backbone  of  the  beast  was 
broken,  but  nevertheless  all  good  citizens  drew  a  breath  of  relief  when, 
shortly  after,  it  was  known  that  the  Seventh  had  returned  to  aid  in  de- 
fending home  and  fireside." 

Page  507.  General  Fry  sums  up  the  situation:  "The  real  cause  of 
the  riot  was,  that  in  a  community  where  a  considerable  political  element 
was  active  in  opposition  to  the  way  the  war  was  conducted,  if  not  to  the 
war  itself,  and  where  there  was  a  strong  opinion  adverse  to  the  principles 
of  compulsory  service,  certain  lawless  men  preferred  fighting  the  Gov- 
ernment at  home,  when  it  made  the  issue  of  forcing  them  bv  lot  to  fight  its 
enemies  in  the  field," 


29o  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

Headquarters  Del.  Dept. 

Wilmington,  Del.,  July  20th,  1863. 
My  dear  Mother: 

You  have  heard  before  now,  I  suppose,  that  I  was 
in  New- York  a  few  days  last  week.  I  saw  Horace  then, 
but  the  excitement  of  the  riots  excluded  all  other  topics 
of  conversation. 

Lilly  was  kind  enough  to  write  me  a  letter  which  I 
shall  gladly  answer,  as  I  have  time  enough  now  to  remem- 
ber all  correspondents  that  remember  me.  If  nothing 
else,  I  have  abundant  opportunities  to  read  and  write. 
After  the  draft  has  been  enforced  in  this  State,  the  neces- 
sity for  Martial  Law  will  probably  have  passed  away. 
Then  I  hope  either  to  have  more  active  service,  or  to  get 
relieved  altogether.  My  summer  experience  will  lead 
me  to  enjoy  with  the  greater  zest,  the  coming  winter. 

Gen.  Tyler  has  behaved  most  handsomely  I  think, 
for  when  he  was  ordered  to  Maryland  Heights,  it  was 
with  the  understanding  that  he  was  to  have  an  important 
command,  if  not  that  of  the  Middle  Department  itself. 
But  the  loss  of  Milroy's  Army,  the  advance  of  Hooker, 
and  consequent  assignment  of  French  to  the  Heights,  the 
troubles  in  Baltimore,  one  and  all  operated  to  break  up 
all  plans,  and  to  leave  him  in  his  present  position.  I 
have  not  heard  him  utter,  for  all,  a  single  word  of  com- 
plaint, though  necessarily  his  position  must  be  very  irk- 
some to  him. 

Aunt  Maria,  Uncle  Phelps  and  Nellie  were  in  New- 
York  for  a  few  hours  while  I  was  there,  but  I  did  not 

know  it  until  it  was  too  late.     Mr.  ,  who  lives 

opposite  my  Uncle's,  sent  for  me  to  come  and  see  him. 
He  proposed  that  I  should  take  charge  of  a  patrol  to  pro- 


WAR    LKT'I  I  RS                                     291 
tect  their  part  of  the  town.     \  turned  t<<  young . 


and  suggested  that  In-  would  make  one  of  tlw  patrol. 
"No,"  says  the  young  man,  "but  I'll  furnish  ;i  portei 
from  father's  store  as  a  substitute."  [ndeed  thought  I, 
with  such  heroic  youths,  there  is  no  need  of  doing  any- 
thing  here.  I  can  let  this  part  of  the  city  take  care  of 
itself. 

Your  affec.  Son, 

Will. 

Headquarters  Del.  Dept. 
Wilmington,  Del.,  July  28th,   1863. 

My  dear  Mother: 

That  I  have  not  written  you  more  punctually,  the  en- 
closed carte-de-visite  must  be  my  excuse.  At  last  I  have 
fulfilled  my  promise,  and  I  trust  the  result  may  prove 
satisfactory  to  you.  The  carte  was  promised  last  Thurs- 
day, but  only  furnished  yesterday.  "There's  a  twist  to 
your  nose"  says  the  ingenuous  artist,  while  taking  his 
preliminary  surveys.  "Perhaps  you  fell  down  once,  and 
injured  it."  I  answered  mildly  that  I  had  no  recollec- 
tion of  such  a  catastrophe.  "Well,"  he  says,  "it  isn't 
straight  anyway."  Then  adding  with  a  sigh,  "There  are 
very  few  things  that  are  straight  in  this  world."  I  sup- 
pose that  this  philosophic  photographer  is  right. 

After  all  I  am  going  to  be  present  to-morrow  at  Horace's 
wedding.  There  really  is  so  little  doing,  that  I  feel  as 
though  I  could  absent  myself  for  a  couple  of  days  with 
propriety.  The  General  says  "All  right,"  so  I  shall  go 
on  to-night  at  1 1 :3c  You  have  not  written  whether  it 
is  your  intention  to  be  present.  It  would  be  a  great  pleas- 
ure to  me  if  I  should  find  you  among  the  guests.     Never 


292 


WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 


mind,  Fall  is  near  at  hand,  and  my  stay  in  the  army  is 
hastening  to  an  end.  I  have  much  leisure  time  to  read, 
and  as  it  is  long  since  I  have  had  such  an  opportunity, 
I  am  indulging  myself  in  books  with  a  vengeance.  My 
previous  visit  to  New- York  was  merely  to  vary  a  little 
the  monotony  of  Wilmington  life,  by  the  excitement  of  the 
mob-rule  then  prevailing  in  the  former  city.  I  there  met 
Charley  Dodge,  who  was  serving  as  Chief  of  Cavalry  on 
Gen.  Wool's  staff.  Charley  contrived  to  give  me  some 
little  employment,  but  all  I  did  was  not  much  in  amount. 

I  dined   a  few  days  ago  at  's.     is  a 

capital  good  fellow,  but  painfully  lazy  and  objectless. 
Much  attention  and  kindness  has  been  shown  us  since 
we  have  been  here  by  the  Union  people.  Unionism  means 
something  in  a  slave  state.  The  most  violent  secession- 
ists  would  not  venture  to  express  half  the  disloyal  senti- 
ments that  one  hears  from  pretty  good  Union  people  in 
Connecticut.  The  Union  people  here,  from  their  position, 
are  forced  to  take  such  strong  ground  as  to  make  the 
sentiment  of  New  England  seem  cold  by  comparison. 
Much  love. 

Most  affec'y-, 

Will. 

Headquarters  Del.  Dept., 
Wilmington,  Del.,  Aug.  17th,  1863. 

My  dear  Mother: 

The  month  is  rapidly  passing  away,  and  I  am  awaiting 
impatiently  the  time  of  my  release.  Meanwhile  I  do 
not  mean  to  pine,  but  am  trying  to  enjoy  myself  the  best 
way  possible.  For  instance,  Saturday  evening,  took  tea 
with  the  Bishop.     Yesterday,  dined  with  the  Chief  Justice. 


WAR   LETTERS  293 

Now  wc  are  making  arrangem<  m  1  to  gel  up  a  steamboat 
excursion  to  Fort  Delaware  —  a  littl<-  private  party  of 
our  own  to  return  some  of  the  civilities  that  have  been 
paid  us.    We  (Ned  and  I)  mean  to  have  all  the  pretty 

girls.  Mrs.  LaMotte,  a  charming  lady,  is  to  play  matron, 
and  I  think  will  have  a  tolerably  good  time.  So  you 
as  I  said  before,  we  don't  pine,  still  I  shall  he  glad  when 
I  shall  be  at  liberty  to  return  home.  Have  just  finished 
reading  Mrs.  Fanny  Kemble's  book  on  plantation  life. 
By  George!  I  never  heard  anything  to  compare  with  her 
descriptions.  They  make  one's  blood  run  cold.  Though 
told  with  great  simplicity  and  evident  truth,  compared 
with  them  Mrs.  Stowe's  book  is  a  mild  dish  of  horrors. 
In  this  State  of  Delaware  I  believe  there  is  a  larger  pro- 
portion of  extreme  Abolitionists  than  in  Massachusetts. 
People  are  tired  of  being  ruled  by  the  lottery  and  slave 
interests  which  heretofore  have  locked  hands  together. 
Gen.  Tyler  is  an  unconditional  man.  When  one  protests 
his  loyalty,  the  Gen.  always  asks  him  if  his  loyalty  is 
great  enough  to  acquiesce  in  the  emancipation  proclama- 
tion, and  according  to  the  answer,  "Yes"  or  "No,"  he  is 
judged.  Uncle  Tom  I  fear,  wouldn't  stand  much  chance 
here.  I  had  a  few  lines  from  Alfred  Goddard  a  day  or 
two  ago.  He  seems  to  be  well  pleased  with  his  position 
on  Gen.  Harland's  Staff.  The  letter  you  enclosed  to  me 
from  Harry  Heffron,  had  all  the  latest  news  from  the 
79th.  They  have  suffered  much  in  following  up  John- 
ston in  Mississippi  from  want  of  water,  Johnston  leaving 
in  every  well  either  a  dead  horse  or  a  mule.  Agreeable! 
They  are  now  however  on  their  way  to  Kentucky  and 
rejoicing.  McDonald  is  on  Gen.  Parke's  Staff.  I  be- 
lieve my  handwriting  grows  daily  more  unformed.  How 
I  have  degenerated  from  the  example  Grandfather  Adams 


294  WILLIAM   THOMPSON   LUSK 

set  us.     However,  I  have  to  write  fast  and  sacrifice  beauty 
to  utility. 

Best  love. 

Affec'y., 

Will. 

The  following  was  found  scribbled  on  a  sheet  of  paper 
in  the  handwriting  of  William  T.  Lusk,  evidently  a  copy 
of  a  letter  written  by  Gen.  Daniel  Tyler: 

I  ask  the  acceptance  of  this  resignation.  Capt.  Lusk 
has  been  in  most  of  the  battles  including  the  First  Bull 
Run,  from  Beaufort  to  the  death  of  Major-Gen.  Stevens, 
whose  Staff  he  was  on  from  the  date  of  Gen.  Stevens's  pro- 
motion to  his  death.  Capt.  Lusk,  so  soon  as  he  heard 
of  the  occupation  of  Maryland  Heights,  left  New- York 
City,  came  to  Point  of  Rocks,  and  walked  to  Harper's 
Ferry,  and  volunteered  for  duty  at  a  moment  when  I  was 
much  in  need  of  his  services,  and  to  make  him  available 
I  recommended  him  for  the  appointment  of  Asst.  Adjt.- 
Genl.  and  he  was  appointed  accordingly,  with  the  expec- 
tation that  when  the  prospect  of  fighting  at  that  point 
was  over,  his  resignation  would  be  accepted.  Under  the 
circumstances,  as  Capt.  Lusk  is  on  the  point  of  commenc- 
ing a  professional  life  in  the  City  of  New- York,  I  ask  the 
acceptance  of  his  resignation,  knowing  that  there  never 
will  be  an  emergency  like  that  at  Gettysburg  and  Mary- 
land Heights,  that  Capt.  Lusk  will  not  be  found  at  the 
front." 


INDEX 


Abbott,  Mr.,  62 

Adam:;,  I  hint,  49,  69,  70,  91,  IO3, 
104,  109,  113,  120,  125,  [49,  164, 
[75,  1<)1,  [96,  [99,  211,  213,  221, 
227,  235,  244 

Adams,  John,   105,    153,   167,   199, 

213,  227 

Adams,  Mary  {nee  Lusk),  129,  162, 
21 1,  221,  235,  244,  265 

Adriancc,  Mr.,  199 

Allen,  Colonel  Ethan,  letter  to  I.  N. 
Phelps,  regarding  the  appoint- 
ment of  Capt.  VV.  T.  Lusk,  Lieut. - 
Col.  of  the  Blair  Light  Infantry, 
276;  letter  to  Hon.  Montgomery 
Blair  requesting  a  pass  from  the 
Sec'y  of  War  permitting  Lieut.- 
Col.  Lusk  to  return  to  the  scene 
of  conflict,  281 

Anthon's  Grammar  School,  13 

Antietam,  battles  of,  10,  15,  199, 
200,  205,  207,  242 

Antietam  and  Fredericksburg,  rein- 
statement of  McClcllan,  202;  the 
battle  of  South  Mountain,  203; 
the  battle  of  Sharpsburg  or  An- 
tietam, 205-207;  after  the  battle 
of  Antietam,  222;  Burnside  suc- 
ceeds McClellan,  228,  229;  battle 
of  Fredericksburg,  249 

Baird,  Major  Andrew  D.,  12 
Barker,  Dr.  Fordyce,  io,  13,  16,  20, 

30 
Barnard,  Horace,  64,  66,   109,   1 10, 

in,  125,  129,  13S,  149,  151,  152, 

164,  193,  196,  198,  213,  214,  217, 

225,  291 
Battery  Island,  160 
Beaufort,  100,  106,  107-109,  125 
Beauregard,  General,  88 


Bellev  ue  i  [0  ;  ital  Medi<  al  ' 

10,  15,  17,  23,  35 
Benedii  t,  Mr.,  1  .'■ 
Bend,  Frank,  1 34 
Benham,   General,    1  (.9,    1  ~r>,    1  '2, 

I53»  '54-  '55.  '  5^,  ,r'2>  167, 
Bennett,  133 
Berlin,  9,  14,  22,  193 
Blackburn's  Ford,  10,  14,  51,  54,  55 
Blair,  I  lor..  Montgomery,  281 
Blakeman,  A.  Noel,  12 
Blenkcr,  General,  178 
Bond,  Miss  Abby,  199 
Bond,  Louisa,  227 
Brady,  Mr.,  237 
Braun,  Carl,  16 
Breed,  Charley,  170,  173,  175 
Bridgeport,  Conn.,  16,  23 
Bromley,  Captain,  175 
Bronson,  Mr.,  144 
Buckingham,    Governor,     14,     155, 

218,  286 
Bull  Run,  first  battle  of,  9,  14,  55- 

60,61-62,119,131;  second  battle 

of,  10,  14,  182-185 
Burnside,  General,  170, 171, 175, 178, 

224,  231,  251,  252,  256,  270,  275 
Butler,  General,  144 

Carlton,  Dr.,  282 
Cameron,  Colonel,  14,  59 
Caverly,  Mrs..  144 
Chantilly,  battle  of,  10,  15,  180.  185 
Chittenden,  Mary  Hartwell,  19,  262 
Chittenden,  S.  B.,  19,  277 
Christ,  Colonel,  15,  212,  215,  216 
Cisco,  John  J.,  letter  to  Gov.  Sey- 
mour, requesting  leave  of  absence 
for  Capt.  Lusk.  279,  280 
Coe.  M.D.,  Henry  C,  his  memorial 
of  William  Thompson  Lusk,  25-3 1 


295 


296 


INDEX 


Colored    Orphan   Asylum,    burning 

of,  287 
Corinth,  battle  at,  141 
Crosby,  Major,  258,  262 

Davis,  Jefferson,  196 

Day,  Nannie,  120,  199 

Dix,  General,  265 

Dodge,  Charles,  167,  292 

Dodge,  Maj.-Gen.  Grenville  M.,  12 

Dodge,  Miss,  221 

Dodge,  Mrs.,  223 

Doster,  W.  E.,  167;  letters  to  W.  T. 

Lusk,  efforts  to  get  him  leave  of 

absence,  273,  275 
Draft  Riots  in  New  York  City,  15, 

22,  287-289 
Dupont,  Commodore,  96 
Dwight,  Miss  Ellen,  103 

Edinburgh,  10,  16,  23 

Eliot,  Bishop,  106 

Elliott,  Dr.  George  T.,  10, 16, 199, 255 

Elliott,  Miss  Kitty,  271 

Elliott,  Lieut.-Col.  S.  M.,  62,  68,  69, 

72 
Elliott,  Lieut.  S.  R.,  48,  49,  69,  73, 

102,  103,  121,  127,  226,  228,  234, 

253 
Elliott,  Capt.  or  Maj.  William,  in, 

116,  117,  126,  127,  138,  149,  166, 

234,  253 
Ellis,  Captain,  73 
Ells,  Edward,  227 
Ellsworth  Zouaves,  The,  58 
Ely,  Col.  William,  97,  147,  167,  171, 

174,  178,  192 
Enfield,  Conn.,  123 
Everett,  Edward,  61,  62 

Farnsworth,  Col.  Addison,  took 
command  of  the  "  Highlanders," 
115;  172,  223,  234,  236,  246,  251, 
264,  266,  267,  279,  280;  letter  to 
W.  T.  Lusk  regarding  the  Major- 
ship  and  his  own  hopes  of  promo- 


tion, 251,  252;  letter  to  Gov. 
Seymour  requesting  leave  of  ab- 
sence for  Capt.  Lusk,  279,  280 

Farnsworth,  Charley,  201 

Flint,  M.D.,  Austin,  his  memoir  of 
William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D., 
21-24 

Fort  Donelson,  126 

Fort  Lafayette,  189 

Fortress  Monroe,  91,  93,  1 16,  163, 
165,  166,  242 

Franklin,  General,  275 

Fredericksburg,  battle  of,  10,  15, 
173,  176,  230,  245,  253,  254 

Fremont,  General,  214,  225 

Gair,  Captain  Robert,  12 

Garnett,  General,  104 

Geneva,  14 

Gilman,  Mrs.,  270 

Gilmore,  General,  141 

Gettysburg,  284,  294 

Goddard,  Alfred,  192,  293 

Goddard,  Henry,  55 

Godwin,  Mr.  (N.  Y.  Post),  195,  196 

Grant,  Dr.,  83,  146,  155,  264,  288 

Grant,  Mr.,  47 

Green,  Gardner,  239 

Greene,  Mayor  Lloyd,  265 

Haight,  Lieut.-Col.  Edward,  12 

Hale,  Lieut.  Morton,  175 

Hall,  Rev.  William  K.,  92,  no,  in, 

121,  164,  262 
Halleck,  General,  170,  255,  256 
Hamilton,  Captain,  168 
Harland,  Ned,  71,  167,  170 
Harper's  Ferry,  205,  294 
Harris,  Dr.,  41 

Harvard  Medical  School,  10,  16,  23 
Hawkins  Zouaves,  Second,  254 
Heidelberg,  9,  14,  22 
Heffron,  Harry,  293 
Hentz,  Mrs.  Caroline  Lee,  128 
Hickok,  ■ — ,  41 
Highland  Guard,  The  {see  The  jgth 


INDEX 


*)1 


Highlanders,    New    York    Volun- 
teers), 47,  48,  51,  62,  76,  77,  87,  91, 
95,  262 
Hilton  Head,  99,  102,  107 
Holmes,  Dr.  Oliver  Wendell,  IO 
Hooker,  General  Joseph,  274,  290 
Houston,  Mr.,  63 
Howland,  E.  Woolsey,  70,  89 
Hubbard,  Dr.  Robert,  16,  23,  262 

1  1 11  nt c-r,  Dr.  James   l>.,   17,  23 
Hunter,  Gen.  David,  132,  141,  148, 

149.  152.  '53 
Huntington,  Emily,  175 
Huntington,  Hannah,  175 

Jackson,  "  Stonewall,"  181,  256,  285 
Johnson,  Charley,  137,  178,  225,  254 
Johnson,  Mr.,  144,  145,  175 
Johnston,  General,  181 

Kearny,  General,  180,  181,  191 
Kemblc,  Mrs.  Fanny,  293 
King,  Henry,  170,  257 
Kingslcy,  Harry  S.,  his  editorial  on 
the  death  of  William  T.  Lusk,  7,  8 
"Kosciusko  Farm,  The,"  78,  80,  81 

Lamar,  Colonel,  162 

La  Motte,  Mrs.,  293 

Lee,  Bishop,  286 

Lee,  General  R.  E.,  181,  270 

Letters  of  a  Family  During  The  War 
for  the   Union,  extract  from,  89 

Life  of  General  Isaac  I.  Stevens,  ex- 
tracts from,  The  Highland  Guard, 
47,  48;  mutiny  in  the  79th  High- 
landers, 76,  77;  reconnoissance  at 
Lewinsville,  85-S7;  placed  in  com- 
mand of  Brigade  at  Annapolis, 
90;  Port  Royal  Expedition,  94, 
95>  98>  995  occupation  of  Beau- 
fort, 107-109;  daring  raids  upon 
the  enemy's  pickets  on  the 
Coosaw,  in;  Port  Royal  Ferry, 
115,  117,  124;  fall  of  Pulaski, 
143;    steamer   Planter,    14S,    149; 


regarding  <  leneral  Bi  nbaro,  149, 
'S0)  '53 >  landing  on  Jamc« 
I  land,  151;  battle  '<f  Scccssion- 
ville,  157,  1  ;;■-:,  165,  174;  • 
battle  -<f  Bull  Run,  182  li  1; 
battle  "f  (  hantill] 

I. in'  "In,  Abraham,  68,  189, 214, 23 1, 
239,  245,  251,  252,  255,  256,  2^2 

Linsly,  Major,  236 

Long  Island  College  Hospital,  10, 
16,  23 

Lord,  Sam,  107,  no,  150,  151,  1^2 

Loyal  Legion,  The  Military  Order 
of  the,  memorial  notice  of,  on  the 
death  of  William  T.  Lusk,  9-12 

Lusk,  Elizabeth  Freeman,  letters  of, 
to  her  son,  William  Thompson 
Lusk.  From  Norwich,  Conn.: 
his  prospects  of  appointment  to 
the  Lt. -Colonelcy  of  the  18th 
C.  V.,  hours  of  bitter  struggling, 
interest  shown  by  his  friends, 
General  Tyler's  affectionate  in- 
terest, disappointment  at  not 
seeing  him,  a  flag  to  greet  his 
return,  the  new  Regiments,  the 
Twenty-second,  the  Fourteenth, 
174-176;  startling  rumors  from 
the  Army  in  Virginia,  efforts 
made  by  his  friends  for  his  pro- 
motion, 178,  179;  after  the  battles 
of  Second  Bull  Run  and  Chan- 
tilly:  thankful  for  the  wonderful 
preservation  of  his  life,  all  lament 
the  ioss  of  Gen'l  Stevens,  move- 
ment was  reported  on  foot  to  re- 
quest Gen'l  Stevens  to  command 
the  Army  of  Virginia,  Gen'l 
Stevens  sacrificed  to  political 
opinion,  her  nerves  greatly 
shaken,  political  interests  para- 
mount everywhere,  191,  192; 
Pope's  report  with  its  censures  ex- 
citing remark,  Jeff  Davis's  Proc- 
lamation, Gen'l  Stevens'  death, 
195-197;  after  the  battle  of  South 


298 


INDEX 


Mountain:  Gen'l  Reno  killed,  look- 
ing with  fear  and  dread  for 
the  terrible  list  to  come  from  the 
battlefield,  the  surrender  of  Har- 
pers Ferry,  197-199;  letter  from 
Gov.  of  Conn,  to  Gov.  of  New 
York,  recommending  his  promo- 
tion, Gov.  Morgan's  promise  of 
promotion,  218,  219;  times  of 
trouble,  the  removal  of  McClellan 
against  whom  there  is  a  strong 
party,  the  Twenty-sixth  Regi- 
ment encamped  at  Norwich,  226- 
22S;  New  York:  after  the  battle 
of  Fredericksburg:  the  sickness  of 
distressing  fears,  the  Nation  to 
fix  the  awful  responsibility  of  this 
dreadful  slaughter,  picture  of  the 
"  desolated  hearth,"  wounded 
soldiers  at  St.  Vincent's  Hos- 
pital, 252-254;  sympathy  for  his 
unrequited  labors,  great  lack  of 
justice  in  promotions,  his  self-sac- 
rifice in  requesting  the  Majority 
to  be  given  to  another,  the  valor 
of  the  79th,  philosophizes  on  dis- 
appointments, 260,  261;  the 
battle  in  Tennessee,  the  Emanci- 
pation Proclamation,  Monitor 
foundered  off  Cape  Hatteras, 
prayers  for  Abraham  Lincoln,  the 
times  turbulent  and  stormy, 
Southern  sympathizers,  264-266; 
army  rumors,  New  York  full  of 
Southern  people,  the  disgraceful 
proceedings  about  the  election  of 
a  Speaker  in  Albany,  Gen'l 
McClellan  living  next  door,  269- 
271;  Col.  Ethan  Allen  desirous 
of  making  Capt.  Lusk  Lt.-Col. 
of  his  new  regiment,  efforts  of 
friends  at  home,  the  offering  of 
bounties,  276,  277;  Longview, 
Enfield,  Conn.:  the  Draft  Riots 
in  New  York  City,  287,  288 
-  to  Horace  Barnard.     From  Nor- 


wich, Conn.:  her  son's  lack  of  rec- 
ognition for  faithful  services,  the 
scheming  politician  receives  the 
honors,  his  intimate  companions 
in  arms  being  dead  or  wounded 
his  cup  is  more  than  full,  193-195 

—  to  Mrs.  Henry  G.  Thompson. 
From  Norwich,  Conn.:  after  the 
first  battle  of  Bull  Run:  Col. 
Elliott's  assertion  that  her  son's 
courage  and  prudence  in  battle 
were  rare,  62 

Lusk,  Graham,  Professor  of  Physi- 
ology, Yale  University,  19 

Lusk,  Lilly  (Perkins  nee  Lusk),  101, 
127,  128,  145,  146,  151,  157,  160, 
162,  164,  l68,  175,  192,  211,  212, 
223,  227,  235,  238,  239,  244,  253, 
254,  261,  290 

Lusk,  Dr.  William  C,  19 

Lusk,  William  Thompson,  Memo- 
rials of,  7-31;  birth,  9,  13,  21; 
education,  9,  10,  14,  16;  his  mili- 
tary service  in  the  79th  Regi- 
ment New  York  Volunteers,  10, 
14;  military  offices  held  by,  10, 
14;  member  of  the  Loyal  Legion 
of  the  United  States,  11;  papers 
on  various  medical  subjects,  17- 
19;  Science  and  Art  of  Midwifery, 
18,  19;  medical  offices  held  by, 
President  of  the  Faculty  and  Pro- 
fessor of  Obstetrics  and  of  the 
Diseases  of  Women  and  Children 
in  Bellevue  Hospital  Medical  Col- 
lege, 11,  16,  17,  23,  26;  consulting 
physician  to  the  Maternity  Hos- 
pital, and  to  the  Foundling  Asy- 
lum, visiting  physician  to  the 
Emergency  Hospital,  11,  17;  con- 
sulting obstetrician  to  the  Society 
of  the  Lying-in  Hospital  of  the 
City  of  New  York,  17;  Gynecol- 
ogist to  Bellevue  and  St.  Vin- 
cent's Hospitals,  11;  Obstetric 
Physician   to   the    Bellevue   Hos- 


INDEX 


pital,  17;  Honorary  Fellow  of 
the  Edinburgh  and  London  Ob 
Btel  rical  So<  Leties,  11,  17,  24; 
corresponding  Fellow  of  1  lie  Ob- 
Btel  rical  Soi  ieties  of  Pai  i  •  and 
Leipsic  and  1  he  I'ai is  Ai  ademy  of 
Medii  in'-,  11,  17,  24;  I'm  lidenl 
of  the  American  ( lynei  ologii  al 
Society,  President  of  the  New 
York  State  Medical  Association, 

II,    17,    22;    Vi(  C    pi  esident     of    t  lie 

New  York  Obstel  rical  Society,  n, 

17,  26;  Professor  of  Physiology 
and  Microscopic  Anatomy  in  the 
Long  Island  College  Hospital,  16, 
23;  married  Mary  1 1  art  will  Chit- 
tenden, 19;  married  Mrs.  Ma- 
thilda Thorn,  19;  children  of,  19. 
Valedictory  address  of,  on  his 
graduation  from  the  Bcllcvuc 
Hospital  Medical  College,  35- 
43;  The  Illustrious  Boerhaave,  43 
Letters  of  —  to  his  mother,  Mrs. 
Elizabeth  F.  Lusk:  from  George- 
town Heights:  joins  the  79th 
Highland  Regiment,  48,  49; 
Glebewood,  Va.:  invasion  of  the 
"sacred  soil,"  camp  life,  49-51; 
near  Centerville:  skirmish  of 
Blackburn's  Ford,  51-53;  first 
battle  of  Bull  Run,  53-60;  Me- 
ridian Hill,  Washington:  W.  T. 
Sherman's  inconsiderate  behavior 
at  Fort  Corcoran,  67-69;  intoxi- 
cation of  troops  after  pay-day, 
Gov.  Stevens  of  Washington  Ter- 
ritory made  Col.  of  the  Highland- 
ers, characterization  of  Gen'l 
Tyler,  70-72;  Camp  Causten:  the 
mutiny  in  the  79th  Regiment,  72- 
76;  Kosciusko  Farm:  incidents  of 
army  life,  80-82;  Camp  Advance, 
Va.:  tales  of  camp  life,  87-89; 
start  on  Port  Royal  expedition, 
leave  of  absence  granted,  given 
up,  S9-90;  on  the  "  Vanderbilt  " 


en  route  for  Fortran  Monroe: 

(i'-n'l   Tlio..   W.   Mi'im.in    com- 
manding 1  he  ■  cpedition,  9 
Fort  Monroe:   hardships  of 
post    life,   irritating   acta  of   in- 
soli  m  ■■   by    bis   luperioi   officer, 
appointed  A 

Steven  ,  93,  94;  Hilton   Head    5 
C:      tOl  in    at    sea,    naval    I  ■ 

I 

neighborhood    of    I  lilton    H<     1, 
of   pillage,  pic- 
tures the  environment,  99  102; 
acknowledging  bos  fr< 

102-105;  Port  Royal  District:  the 
occupation  of  Beaufort,  camp 
duties,  the  military  situation, 
106,  107;  Beaufort:  raids  on  the 
rebel  pickets,  characterization  of 
William  Elliott,  no,  III;  ill  with 
fever,  in,  112;  rapid  recovery, 
the  "New  Year's  call"  (action  at 
Port  Royal  Ferry),  negro  stories 
of  feeling  of  depression  among 
South  Carolina  troops,  treatment 
of  prisoners,  112-115;  receipt  of 
sword  from  W.  W.  Phelps,  his 
efforts  to  secure  William  Elliott's 
promotion,  116,  117;  scouting  on 
Hospa  Creek,  Thomas  W.  Sher- 
man's expedition  against  Fort 
Pulaski,  newspaper  glory,  118- 
120;  arrival  of  the  Connecticut 
battery,  time  of  his  appointment 
as  Captain,  120,  121;  character- 
ization of  General  Steven?.  IZ2, 
123;  reasons  for  not  encouraging 
his  mother  to  visit  Beaufort,  news 
of  the  capture  of  Fort  Donelson, 
a  picket  episode,  124-126;  the 
"  excellent  females  "  brought 
hither  for  the  regeneration  of  the 
negro  race,  127-129;  his  com- 
mendation of  McClellan  in  the 
face  of  savage  attack,  129-132; 
Gen'l  Thos.  W.  Sherman  super- 


INDEX 


seded  by  Gen'l  David  Hunter, 
reasons  for  inactivity  of  the  Com- 
mand, reasonable  possibilities  ac- 
complished, doubts  the  sincerity 
of  a  few  of  the  "  Brethren,"  his 
clothes  beginning  to  grow  rusty, 
looks  for  an  early  victorious 
career  of  the  Command,  132-135; 
asking  his  mother  to  see  Mrs. 
Gen.  Stevens  who  was  returning 
to  New  York,  135,  136;  bombard- 
ment of  Pulaski  begun,  vaccina- 
tion a  perfect  safeguard  against 
smallpox,  suffering  torments  from 
sand-flies,  characterization  of 
William  Elliott,  136-138;  the  fall 
of  No.  10,  the  battle  at  Corinth, 
and  the  surrender  of  Pulaski,  dis- 
gusted with  emancipation  experi- 
ments, 140-142;  acknowledging 
gift  of  a  flag,  political  howl- 
ing against  McClellan,  143-145; 
his  sister's  marriage,  character- 
ization of  newspaper  correspond- 
ents, 145-147;  escape  of  the 
steamer  Planter,  characterization 
of  Gen'l  Hunter,  147,  148;  "  On- 
ward to  Charleston,"  149;  James 
Island:  much  skirmishing,  150, 
151;  distrust  of  General  Benham, 
152;  battle  of  Secessionville,  the 
project  of  storming  the  battery 
conceived  in  utter  folly,  indigna- 
tion at  useless  bloodshed,  re- 
covery of  his  sword,  156,  157; 
Battery  Island:  unable  to  get 
leave  of  absence,  a  plague  of  in- 
sects, 160-162;  en  route  to  For- 
tress Monroe:  is  glad  to  leave  a 
malarious  atmosphere,  163-165; 
Newport  News:  desires  promo- 
tion, characterization  of  Gen'l 
Benham,  166-168;  would  accept 
an  appointment  in  one  of  the  new 
Connecticut  regiments,  169;  per- 
sonal appearance  of  General  Hal- 


leck,  170;  characterization  of 
William  Ely,  expresses  views  on 
the  draft,  171,  172;  on  board 
steamer  "  Elm  City,"  at  Acquia 
Creek:  serving  as  Acting  Assist- 
ant Adjut.-Gen.,  173,  174;  Fred- 
ericksburg: indignation  at  army 
atrocities  toward  non-combat- 
ants, 176-178;  near  Alexandria: 
battle  of  Chantilly,  death  of  Gen- 
eral Stevens,  army  mismanage- 
ment, 180,  181;  Meridian  Hill, 
Washington,  D.  C:  the  army  de- 
moralized by  political  Generals, 
depletion  of  the  ranks  of  the 
Highlanders  to  230  men,  his  own 
services  unrecognized,  188-190; 
near  Sharpsburg:  after  the  battle 
of  Antietam;  an  unsuccessful 
candidate  for  position  in  the  18th 
Conn.,  political  influences  in 
securing  promotion,  199-202; 
abandons  all  thought  of  promo- 
tion and  contents  himself  with 
doing  his  duty,  209-211;  Mouth 
of  Antietam  Creek:  79th  High- 
landers transferred  to  a  new 
brigade  and  he  consequently  re- 
signs his  position  on  Colonel 
Christ's  staff,  characterization  of 
Gen'l  Pope,  21 1-2 13;  Antietam 
Iron  Works:  encloses  Special 
Order  mentioning  him  for  gal- 
lant and  meritorious  conduct, 
etc.,  217,  21S;  Camp  Israel,  Pleas- 
ant Valley:  unfairness  in  army 
promotions,  220-222,  Camp  near 
Southville,  Va. :  recrossed  into  Vir- 
ginia, 222,  223;  near  Rectorville, 
Va.:  army  support  of  McClellan, 
224-226;  near  Fredericksburg: 
his  turn  to  go  home  on  leave  dis- 
regarded, 229,  230;  near  Fal- 
mouth: the  efforts  of  officers  to 
check  outrage  neutralized  by  the 
accursed    conduct   of    the    Press, 


INDEX 


joi 


McClellan's  abilities,  wreti  hed 
army  system,  marauding  pro- 
pensities of  the  troops,  ^io-233; 
picture  of  camp  life  on  Than!  ■  - 
giving  Day,  trick  to  depi n e  him 
oJ  the  Majorship  of  the  79th 
Highlanders,  233-235;  philoso- 
phizes over  having  losl  the 
Majorship,  wishes  an  appoint- 
in. -lit  in  the  Regular  Army,  "  Old 
Abe's "  eman<  ipal  ion  plans,  leave 
of  absence  refused,  238-240;  gen- 
eral  suffering  for  want  of  clothes, 
(.lining  on  fried  pol  atoes,  promo- 
tions by  War  Department  given 
to  young  untried  officers,  240- 
242;  letter  written  just  before 
the  battle  of  Fredericksburg: 
patriotic  exhortation,  242-244; 
description  of  the  battle  of  Fred- 
ericksburg, 244-248;  criticism  of 
the  disastrous  affair  at  Freder- 
icksburg, rumors  of  the  resigna- 
tion of  Lincoln's  cabinet,  reason 
for  having  lost  faith  in  Halleck, 
praise  for  McClellan,  despair  over 
the  paltry  policy  of  the  adminis- 
tration, 254-257;  his  mortifica- 
tion over  being  in  a  subordinate 
position,  Army  promotions  not 
based  on  fitness,  257-259;  philoso- 
phizes over  his  adversities,  266, 
267;  cheerfulness  over  impending 
action  in  the  thought  of  being 
able  to  contribute  something  to 
the  Cause,  268;  expecting  to 
meet  the  enemy  on  the  morrow, 
hope  is  dominant,  patriotic  ex- 
hortation, 271-273;  the  coveted 
leave  "  still  unobtainable,  an- 
noyance caused  by  his  superior 
officer,  discusses  the  command  of 
the  Army  of  the  Potomac,  273- 
275;  Baltimore:  starting  back  for 
the  scene  of  conflict  (Harper's 
Ferry),   28 2;  Maryland  Heights : 


walk    twelve  miles  from  Point  of 
I' 01  Its  to  join  '  .-I. 'I   Tylei 
installs     liirn     on     his      staff     a» 
A.  A.  General,  2H2,  zm,;  Wttmlug 
ton:    hi  ■    t  o.op  ,    pi...  ed    on 
in.i.  tive  li  it,  be  •  hafes  under  the 
enforced   idleness  and   plans  rc- 
turning  to  his  studies,  285-287; 

a  few  days  in    New    York   d 

the  Draft  Riot  .  ( i<  n'l  Tyler's 
promised  promotion  halted  by 
circumstano  1,  290,  291;  gets  a 
couple  of  .!■'.  I  absence, 

had  been  indulging  in  book  read- 
ing, 291,  292;  ocial  pastimes  at 
Wilmington,  news  from  Harry 
HefFron  of  the  79th  Highlanders, 
292-294 

—  to  his  uncle,  John  Adams.  From 
James  Island:  battle  of  Seces- 
sionvillc,  denounces  the  action  of 
General  Bcnham,  153-155 

—  to  Horace  Barnard.  From  Beau- 
fort, S.  C:  satire  on  political  in- 
terference in  military  matters, 
138-140;  near  Antietam  Creek: 
commentary  on  McClellan,  char- 
acterization of  General  Stevens, 
214-217 

—  to  his  sister  Lillie.  From  Camp 
near  Falmouth,  Va.:  on  New 
Year's  Eve  he  determines  to  be 
cheerful  in  the  knowledge  that 
Providence  doeth  all  things  well, 
holiday  festivities,  261-263 

—  to  Mrs.  Henry  G.  Thompson. 
On  going  to  join  his  regiment.  4"; 
Meridian  Hill,  Washington:  inci- 
dents of  camp  life.  63-66;  Camp 
Causten  (the  Kosciusko  farm) :  the 
79th  Highlanders  after  the  first 
Bull  Run  reduced  by  death  and 
desertion  from  1000  to  700  men 
capable  for  action,  77-S0;  Camp 
Advance:  restoration  of  colors  to 
Highlanders,  good  health  of  the 


INDEX 


Regiment,  camp  incidents,  82-85; 
Wilmington:  exultation  after  Get- 
tysburg and  Yicksburg,  284,  285 

McBride,  Captain,  257 

McClellan,  General,  81,  88, 130,  145, 
146,  163,  181,  202,  214,  224,  225, 
227,  231,  239,  251,  256,  271,  275 

McDonald,  Dr.,  83,  112,  210,  211, 
212,  224,  230,  248,  251,  258,  266, 
271,  293 

McDowell,  General,  54,  181,  255 

McKaye,  Colonel,  288 

Manassas,  battle  of,  15,  64,  65,  68, 
80,  213 

Mansfield,  General,  68 

Martin,  George,  123 

Maryland  Heights,  294 

Matteson,  Major,  167,  190,  192, 
195,  196 

"  Memorial  History  of  the  City  oj 
New  York,  The"  Draft  Riots  in 
New  York  City,  288,  289 

Meech,  Mr.,  227 

Merrill,  — ,  134 

Merwin,  First-Lieutenant,  175 

Mintzing,  Miss,  1 10,  1 19,  162 

Monoyer,  Dr.,  14 

More,  Major,  234,  237,  257 

Morgan,  Governor  E.  D.,  10,  14, 
116,  217,  218,  219,  259;  letter  to 
Colonel  Farnsworth  in  regard  to  a 
furlough  for  Captain  Lusk  on  his 
being  tendered  the  Lieut.-Colo- 
nelcy  of  the  Blair  Light  Infantry, 
278 

Morrison,  Lieut. -Colonel,  93,  229, 
234,  236,  257,  274,  279 

Newport  News,  166 

New  York  County  Medical  Asso- 
ciation, 21 

New  York  Evening  Post,  140,  196, 
198,  227 

New    York  Express,  227 

New    York  Herald,  191,  227,  252 


New    York  Medical  Journal,  11,  18, 

23 
New  York  Obstetrical  Society,   11, 
17;    tribute    to    the    memory    of 
William  Thompson  Lusk,  M.D., 
LL.D.,  25-31 
New  York  State  Medical  Associa- 
tion, 11,  17,  22 
New    York  Times,  The,  191,  287 
New    York   Tribune,  191,   196,   227, 

287 
New    York  World,  227 
Nichols,  Captain,  286,  288. 
Norwich,  Conn.,  9,  13,  175,  258,  286 
Norzvich  Morning    Bulletin,  53,  55, 
159 

Olmstead,  — ,  41 
Opdyke,  Mr.,  238 
Opdyke,  Mayor,  278 
O'Rourke,  — ,  134 
Osgood,  Dr.,  228 

Parke,  General,  293 

Paris,  10,  16,  23 

Peaslee,  Dr.  Edmund  R.,  30 

Perkins,  Thomas,  101,  104,  120, 
148,  211,  218,  227,  235,  244,  263, 
270,  287 

Phelps,  Isaac  N.,  101,  105,  no,  116, 
119,  126,  127,  135,  217,  219,  234, 
237,  248,  254,  277,  290 

Phelps,  Mrs.  Isaac  N.,  105,  127, 
135,  253,  290 

Phelps,  Sarah,  257 

Phelps,  Mrs.  Walter,  138 

Phelps,  William  Walter,  87,  92,  101, 
104,  no,  in,  116,  129,  157,  164, 
170,  211,  218,  259,  .  .  .  :  letters  of, 
to  Mrs.  E.  F.  Lusk:  from  New 
York:  his  interview  with  Gov. 
Morgan  regarding  a  Commission 
for  her  son,  219,  220;  announ- 
cing the  receipt  of  a  Commission 
for  Major  W.  T.  Lusk,  235,  236: 
letter  of,  to  W.  T.  Lusk  telling  of 


INDEX 


jo  j 


liis  receipt  of  i  lie  Com rni.v.ion  and 

its  recall,  i^<>  Z38 
I'i.M  1,  <  !olonel,  282 
Pier,  Captain,  198 
Planter,  The  steamer,  [48 
Point  of  Rocks,  282,  294 
Pope,  General,  163,  171,  177,  181, 

195.  199.  213,  214,  231 
Port  Royal,  10,  14,  89,  94,  95,  166 
Porter,  — ,  225 
Prague,  10,  16,  23 
Prentiss,  Rev.  Mr.,  264 
Pringlea,  The,  107 
Pulaski,  1 19,  13C,  141 

"Rebellion  Record,  The"  extracts 
from,  54;  Hull  Run,  60-62;  Port 
Royal,  98;  rcconnoissance  on  the 
Corinth  road,  142;  battle  of  Sc- 
ccssionville,  158,  159;  battle  of 
South  Mountain,  203,  204,  209; 
surrender  of  Harper's  Ferry,  205; 
honorable  mention  of  Capt.  W. 
T.  Lusk,  218 

Reynolds,  Tom,  119 

Richmond  Examiner,  The,  87 

Riley,  Mr.,  264 

Robert,  pilot  of  the  Planter,  148 

Rockwell,  Capt.  A.  P.,  120,  125, 
136,  157,  159,  163,  167,  168,  225 

Rosecrans,  General,  152 

Rowe,  Dr.,  40,  41 

Russell's  Military  School,  13,  258 

Sandford,  — ,  101 

Sanger,  Prof.,  31 

Schenck,  General  Robert  C,  181 

Schurz,  Gen.  Carl,  181,  189 

"  Science  and  Art  of  Midwifery,  The," 

10,  11,  18,  19,  23 
Scott,  General,  49 
Secessionville  on   James  Island,  10, 

14,  153-159,225 
Seifert,  Prof.,  16 
Seymour,   Governor    Horatio,    224, 

252,  277,  279 


'         l  bomai  \\ '.,  9  1 ,  M-, 
122,  123,  12H,  132,  134,  141,  1  j 

Sherman,  <  ol.  W.  T.,  5 1 ;  hit  r< 
oi  first  battle  <-f  Bull  R 
68 

Sigel,  ( !(  nei  al  I  ranz,  17     j    1,214 

Sim  I,  \)\ .  Marion,  30 

Simpi  on,  Sir  Jamei  V.,  16 

Sloat,  — ,    144 

Smith,  Dr,  A.  Alexander,  hit  address 
in  memory  of  William   l 
Lusk,  M.D.,  LL.D.,  13 

South  Mountain,  battle  of,   10,   15, 

197,  203 
Spooner,  Rev.  Albert,  13 

ue,  General  I.  T.,  279,  280 
Stanton,  Secretary,  273,  275 
Starkweather,  Mr.,  282 
Stcdman,  Edward,  173 
Stevens,  Captain  Hazard,  180,  241 
Stevens,  Gen.  Isaac  I.  (see  Life  of), 

15,  70,  73,  74,  75,  9°,  9i,  93,  94, 
104,  113,  152,  154,  156,  157,  162, 
163,  164,  167,  168,  169,  180,  188, 
190,  191,  193,  196,  213,  214,  215, 
225,  234,  254,  255 

Stevens,  Mrs.  Isaac  I.,  135,  196,  198 

Stewart,  A.  T.,  238 

Stowe,  Mrs.  Harriet  B.,  293 

Sumner,  General,  257,  275 

Tappan,  John,  260 

Taylor,  Dr.  Isaac  E.,  30 

"  The  79th  Highlanders  New  York 
Volunteers  in  the  War  of  the 
Rebellion,"  extracts  from,  51; 
Blackburn's  Ford,  54,  55;  recon- 
noissance  at  Lewinsville,  85;  115, 
117;  Bull  Run,  184,  1S5;  South 
Mountain,  205,  207;  Fredericks- 
burg, 249,  250;  "  Mud  Cam- 
paign," 268,  269 

Thompson,  Mrs.  Henry  G.,  47,  62, 
63.  77.  S2,  105,  140.  151,  217.  ;::. 
244.  271.  2S4 

Thorn,  Mrs.  Matilda,  19 


>°4 


INDEX 


Tyler,  Alfred,  151,  168,  257 

Tyler,  General  Daniel,  10,  14,  51, 
7h  72,  75.  J34>  175,  176,  213, 
228,  2S3,  290,  293;  unaddressed 
letter  asking  acceptance  of  resig- 
nation of  Capt.  Lusk  who  was 
at  point  of  commencing  a  pro- 
fessional life  in  the  City  of  New 
York,  294 

Tyler,  Mrs.  Daniel,  69,  105,  168, 
178,  265 

Tyler,  Ned,  114,  174,   228,  283 

Tyler,  John,  1 14 

Tyng,  Dr.,  220 

Vanderbilt,  The,  91,  95 
Vienna,  10,  16,  23 

Vincent,  Asst.  Adjt.-Gen.  Thomas 
M.,  280 

Wabash,  frigate,  96 

Waddell,  William  C.  H.,  letter  of,  to 
Gov.  Seymour  requesting  leave 
of  absence  for  Capt.  Lusk  with  a 
view  to  his  obtaining  command  of 
Col.  Allen's  Regiment,  279,  280 

Wadsworth,  — ,  224 


Walker,  Lieut.  Henry,  150 

Walker,  Mrs.,  151 

"War  of  the  Rebellion,  The,"  occu- 
pation of  Beaufort,  108,  109; 
regarding  exchange  of  prisoners, 
162;  Gen.  Hunter  succeeds  Gen. 
Benham,  163;  Sharpsburg,  207, 
208;  Lieut.-Col.  Wm.  T.  Lusk 
joins  Gen.  Tyler's  staff,  283,  284 

Watson,  Asst.  Secy.  P.  H.,  273,  281 

Weed,  Thurlow,  251,  252 

Welles,  Secy,  of  Navy,  96 

Wells,  Mrs.  Mary,  227 

Wetmore,  General,  238 

White,  Miss  Julia,  254 

Williams,  General  Seth,  154,  156, 
270 

Wilson,  Billy,  220 

Wool,  General,  292 

Woolsey,  Miss,  70 

Woolsey,  Miss  Abby,  270 

Woolsey,  Miss  Carrie,  270 

Woolsey,  Georgie,  270,  271 

Woolsey,  Jane,  270 

Wyatt,  Chaplain  Jas.  C,  197 

Yale  College,  9,  13,  14,  43 


R154.L97  y,97 

Lusk 
War  letters  of  Hillifljq  Thonpson 


